Former England youth international Kelci Bowers has been supporting Argentina at the 2026 World Cup, cheering on her boyfriend, defender Marcos Senesi. The 22-year-old will be in the stands on Sunday as Argentina faces Spain in the final at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Allegiance to Partner Over Country
Bowers, who represented the Lionesses at youth level, admitted she was rooting for Argentina after England's semi-final defeat. "I grew up wearing an England shirt and had the privilege of representing England, so that connection will always be incredibly strong," she told The Times. "But when your partner is playing in one of the biggest games of his career, naturally you want him to do well too."
Her comments sparked backlash online, with some fans branding her a "traitor." Bowers, however, remains proud of both her English roots and her boyfriend's achievements.
From Viral Sensation to WAG
Bowers shot to internet fame after signing for AFC Bournemouth Women. The club's announcement video garnered tens of millions of views, with fans joking they were "barking like dogs" over her appearance. The viral attention helped her amass over 340,000 Instagram followers.
She met Senesi during a retro kit photoshoot at Bournemouth. "It was actually my first week after signing for the club," Bowers recalled. "During the shoot we had a few group photos together... Afterwards we started chatting on Instagram."
Relationship Timeline
The pair both left Bournemouth earlier this summer, with Senesi completing a move to Tottenham Hotspur. Bowers, a centre-back like her boyfriend, played for England at youth level. She has been supporting Argentina throughout the tournament, attending matches in the stands.
Sunday's final will see Bowers cheering on Senesi as Argentina aims to retain the World Cup. Fans are expected to look for her in the crowd at MetLife Stadium.
