Former England youth international Kelci Bowers faces a unique dilemma as the World Cup 2026 semi-final approaches: her partner, Argentina defender Marcos Senesi, will be facing the Three Lions for a place in the final. Bowers, 22, rose through the England youth ranks from under-15 to under-19 levels and earned six caps for her country. She now finds herself supporting both sides in one of football's most iconic rivalries.
From Lioness to Argentina WAG
Bowers and Senesi met while both were at Bournemouth, before Senesi moved to Tottenham Hotspur this summer. Bowers has played for Chelsea, Southampton, Louisiana State University, and Portsmouth. She told The Times: "I made my England debut on 16 April 2019 at just 15 years old and stayed in the England set-up until I moved to the United States when I was 18. During that time I earned six caps, which is something I’ll always be incredibly proud of."
Divided Loyalties
Bowers admitted she has faced questions from "every single person" about her allegiance. She said: "It’s a very unusual situation for me. I grew up wearing an England shirt and had the privilege of representing England, so that connection will always be incredibly strong. England making it to the semi-final is a crazy accomplishment and I’m super proud of my country." However, she will be supporting Argentina on Wednesday, adding: "When your partner is playing in one of the biggest games of his career, naturally you want him to do well too. I’ll be supporting Marcos personally while still feeling incredibly proud whenever I see England on a stage like this. It’s probably the only game where I’ll be feeling nervous for both sides."
Meeting and Match Day
The couple met during a photoshoot for AFC Bournemouth, where they had group photos together. Bowers described it as "really special" to have those memories. She plans to attend the game and respect both teams, saying: "I’m going to be wishing England the best game. I have best intentions for both teams. Whatever the outcome is, we’ll just see."
