Argentina's players will wear black armbands for their World Cup semi-final against England to honour Antonio Rattin, their former captain who died on July 11, 2026, at the age of 89 after a suspected stroke.
FIFA-Approved Tribute
The Argentina Football Association (AFA) requested permission from FIFA to wear the armbands. They were allowed to do so during the 3-1 extra-time quarter-final victory over Switzerland and will continue the tribute against England. The gesture carries immense historical weight given Rattin's legacy.
Rattin's Career and Legacy
Nicknamed 'El Rata,' Rattin earned 34 caps for Argentina between 1959 and 1968 as a Boca Juniors midfielder. He played in the 1962 and 1966 World Cups and captained the national team with charisma and fierceness.
The Infamous 1966 Sending-Off
Rattin is most famously remembered for his dismissal in the 1966 World Cup quarter-final between Argentina and England at Wembley. German referee Rudolf Kreitlein sent him off, but language barriers caused chaos: Kreitlein spoke no Spanish, Rattin no German. Rattin demanded an interpreter and refused to leave the field for nearly ten minutes.
How Rattin Changed Football
The confusion from Rattin's sending-off directly inspired FIFA to introduce the yellow and red card system. The cards debuted at the 1970 World Cup as a universal visual method for cautions and dismissals, a system still used today.
Impact on England-Argentina Relations
The 1966 match was tense and foul-heavy, straining relations between the two nations. England won 1-0 and later lifted the trophy. After the match, England manager Alf Ramsey controversially called Argentine players 'animals.'
Post-Playing Career
After retiring, Rattin briefly managed Boca Juniors and entered politics. He became the first former professional footballer to serve in Argentina's National Chamber of Deputies, holding office from 2001 to 2005.
Match Details
England and Argentina face off in the World Cup semi-final on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 8pm UK time (4pm in Argentina). The winner will face either France or Spain in the final.
