England face Argentina in the World Cup 2026 semi-final on Wednesday in Atlanta, with a place in the final at stake. The Two teams have met five times previously at the World Cup, with England holding a superior record after victories in 1962, 1966, and 2002. Argentina won in controversial fashion in 1986 en route to lifting the trophy and knocked England out on penalties in the 1998 round of 16.
Hand of God: Maradona's Infamous Goal
The most talked-about moment in the rivalry occurred in the 1986 quarter-final at the Estadio Azteca. With the score 0-0 early in the second half, Diego Maradona jumped to contest a loose ball and raised his left arm to punch it past England goalkeeper Peter Shilton into an empty net. The referee did not spot the handball and awarded the goal. Argentina went on to win 2-1 and eventually beat West Germany in the final to win the World Cup.
Goal of the Century
Just minutes after the 'Hand of God', Maradona produced one of the finest individual goals in World Cup history. Picking up the ball inside his own half, he dribbled past five England players, taking 11 touches in 11 seconds, to score what FIFA later dubbed the 'Goal of the Century'. The moment encapsulated Maradona's genius and left England stunned.
Beckham's Red Card and Penalty Heartbreak (1998)
In the 1998 round of 16, England's David Beckham was sent off for petulantly kicking out at Argentina midfielder Diego Simeone while on the ground. Despite being down to ten men, England forced extra time and penalties, but Argentina prevailed. Michael Owen had earlier announced himself to the world with a stunning solo goal, giving England a 2-1 lead before Javier Zanetti equalised just before half-time.
Beckham's Redemption (2002)
Four years later, Beckham captained England in the group stage match against Argentina. Having been vilified after his 1998 red card, he scored the only goal from the penalty spot to secure a 1-0 win, England's first over Argentina since 1966. The victory was a personal redemption for Beckham, who had also scored a crucial free-kick to qualify England for the tournament.
2026 Semi-Final: A New Chapter
England reached the semi-final by beating Norway 2-1 after extra time, while Argentina needed extra time to overcome 10-man Switzerland 3-1. The match in Atlanta promises high drama as both teams seek a place in the World Cup final. The rivalry, marked by controversy and brilliance, adds an extra layer of intensity to the encounter.
