Argentina used a series of underhand tactics to disrupt England during the World Cup semi-final, with a minute-by-minute account revealing 31 instances of foul play, time-wasting, and provocation. The Argentine players and fans also displayed a political banner claiming the Falkland Islands, leading to expected FIFA sanctions.
Early Aggression Sets the Tone
Within the first minute, Alexis Mac Allister fouled Elliot Anderson just 19 seconds into the match. Leandro Paredes shoved Jude Bellingham, sparking a confrontation. Enzo Fernandez and Giuliano Simeone continued the physical approach, targeting Anderson repeatedly.
England Retaliates
England players began to respond, with Morgan Rogers tripped and Jordan Pickford colliding with Simeone. Anthony Gordon was brought down by Simeone, who patted him on the head. Referee Ismail Elfath warned Simeone for obstructing Pickford at a corner, but the tactic persisted.
Controversial Incidents Mount
Mac Allister fouled Reece James without a call, angering Thomas Tuchel. Fernandez, Simeone, and Nahuel Molina all fouled Bellingham. Marc Guehi was hindered by Simeone's head-leading challenge. Lionel Messi avoided a booking after a subtle swipe at Djed Spence.
Yellow Cards and Appeals
Anderson received the game's first yellow card for a collision with Messi. Harry Kane covered his mouth while speaking to the referee, prompting Mac Allister and Paredes to appeal for a red card, though no such rule applies. Lisandro Martínez was booked for pulling Rogers.
Time-Wasting and Late Challenges
Argentina's bench threw an old ball onto the pitch to delay a throw-in. Paredes raised a high boot on Anderson. Messi pushed Bellingham into advertising boards. Cristian Romero received a yellow card for a rugby-style tackle. Simeone struck Spence in the face without a card.
Hydration Break and Post-Goal Provocation
After a hydration break, Messi swiped at Spence. Following Fernandez's equalizer, Romero shouted in Pickford's face. John Stones suffered a head injury, with Argentina players swarming the referee to protest. In stoppage time, Gabriel Montiel insulted Bellingham, and Emiliano Martínez time-wasted with a grin.
Post-Match Controversy
Full-time saw Dean Henderson push Lautaro Martínez, Rogers tangle with players, and Bellingham hit Valentin Barco. Argentina fans threw a banner reading 'Las Malvinas son Argentinas,' which players displayed. FIFA fined Argentina for the same slogan in 2014 and is expected to act again.
