FIFA has confirmed that Argentina will wear their navy blue second strip against England in Wednesday's World Cup semi-final, after the reigning champions made a 'special request' to use the colour associated with Diego Maradona's iconic 1986 performance.
Argentina's Path to the Semi-Finals
Argentina secured their place in the final four with a 3-1 extra-time victory over Switzerland, with Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez scoring after a tense 90 minutes. The team had earlier survived scares against Cape Verde and Egypt in the knockout stages. England, under Thomas Tuchel, advanced by beating Norway 2-1 in Miami, inspired by Jude Bellingham.
Historical Context of the Rivalry
This will be the sixth World Cup meeting between the two nations. England have won three of the previous encounters, most recently in 2002. The rivalry is steeped in history, notably the 1986 quarter-final where Maradona scored both the 'Hand of God' and a mesmerizing solo goal. Argentina also wore navy blue when they eliminated England in 1998, a match remembered for David Beckham's red card.
FIFA's Decision on Kit Colours
FIFA's official Match Colour Designation release confirms Argentina will wear their navy blue shirts, white shorts, and red socks. According to journalist Gaston Edul, the request came directly from the Argentinian camp as a psychological move. Argentina have used this kit only once in the tournament, during a group-stage win over Jordan. England will wear their traditional white strip, with goalkeeper Jordan Pickford in the same yellow kit from the quarter-final.
Messi's First Encounter with England
Lionel Messi, who has never faced England in his career, described the match as 'special'. 'It never happened to me against England, it's the first time, so it's going to be a special match, a World Cup semi-final,' he said. Messi added that he has only seen footage of the 1986 game but emphasised the team's focus on preparation.
The match will take place at Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Wednesday.
