Gary Lineker shows true colours in World Cup intervention on Falklands | World | News
Gary Lineker has been criticized for his comments about the Falkland Islands ahead of a possible match between Argentina and England at the World Cup. The England National Team will be able to face the team that will win the 2022 World Cup if they beat Norway this evening (July 10). In his commentary on the match, Lineker made a reference to the Falkland Islands, sparking reactions online.
Speaking about the rivalry between the nations on The Rest is Football podcast, Lineker said: “England could face Argentina in the semi-finals, we’re slightly ahead, but isn’t there a lot of history between our nations? It wasn’t that long ago that our two countries were at war with the Falklands or the Malvinas, and before that?”
His reference to the Falkland Islands as the Malvinas, a Spanish name used by Argentina for landmasses, sparked criticism from members of the public who responded to a claim. GBNews mail One user wrote: “‘Or the Malvinas’ – get some rest Gary.” Another commented: “What do you mean ‘or Malvinas’, Gary?”
One commenter defended Lineker’s use of the word Malvinas to describe the Falkland Islands, writing: “Speaking Spanish, it is correct for him to use the Falkland Islands or Malvinas.”
Argentine players were seen singing a song referencing Falklands Ireland just minutes after their Round of 16 win against Egypt earlier this week. The victory against the team featuring Mo Salah ensured Argentina’s place in the quarter-finals where they will play Switzerland.
If the hotly tipped team manages to reach the semi-finals, they will face England on July 15 if captain Harry Kane beats Norway.
One of the popular songs sung by Argentinian fans refers to the islands that the people of South America call Las Malvinas. One of the lines reads: “For the Malvinas, for Diego, for Leo’s last chapter, I am Argentinian from cradle to grave.”
This chant first debuted during Argentina’s 2022 World Cup run and was brought back for the 2026 season. Argentinian players are expected to chant this slogan if the two teams meet in the quarter-finals next week.
Britain and Argentina were at odds for 10 weeks in 1982 after Argentine forces invaded the Falklands, a remote, self-governing British overseas territory in the South Atlantic Ocean. The region is still disputed to this day and the issue remains a politically sensitive one.
