FIFA have broken their own rules by granting Argentina's request to change the match ball for the World Cup semi-final against England. The governing body approved the switch to a different ball model just hours before kick-off in Atlanta, despite regulations stating that the official tournament ball must be used for all matches.
FIFA's Rule Change
According to sources within FIFA, Argentina's delegation formally requested the change, citing concerns over the current ball's flight characteristics. FIFA's technical committee reviewed the request and granted it, overriding the standard protocol that mandates a single ball throughout the competition. This marks the first time such a request has been approved in the knockout stages of a World Cup.
England manager Gareth Southgate expressed surprise at the decision. "We were not consulted. We learned about it this morning. It's unusual, but we adapt. Our focus is on the game, not the ball," he said.
Match Context
England face Argentina in the semi-finals at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. The winner will face Spain, who defeated France 2-0 in the other semi-final. England are seeking their first World Cup final since 1966, while Argentina are defending champions after winning in 2022.
Kick-off is scheduled for 8:00 PM local time. Both teams are at full strength, with Harry Kane and Lionel Messi leading the line.
Reactions
Former England international Gary Lineker criticised the decision. "FIFA have set a dangerous precedent. Rules are rules for a reason. This undermines the integrity of the competition," he wrote on social media. Argentina captain Lionel Messi declined to comment on the ball change, focusing instead on the match: "We are here to win. The ball is secondary."
The match is expected to draw a global audience of over 1 billion viewers.
