The former Lioness now cheering on Argentina in the World Cup
Kelci Bowers is used to being close to the action when it comes to watching England play football.
Born in Portsmouth and raised in Gosport, the 22-year-old AFC Bournemouth defender grew up representing his country in the youth ranks.
But tonight he will face an unusual commitment as England face Argentina in the World Cup semi-final, thanks to his relationship with Argentine defender Marcos Senesi. The pair met during a photo shoot while playing for Bournemouth’s men’s and women’s teams and their romance led Ms Bowers to admit she will be wearing blue and white for tonight’s game.
“This is a very unusual situation for me,” he said. Times. “I grew up wearing the England jersey and had the privilege of representing England, so that bond will always be incredibly strong. For England to get to the semi-finals is a crazy achievement and I’m so proud of my country.”
Ms Bowers said she had faced questions from “every single person” about where her loyalties lay, and responded diplomatically, saying she would support Mr Senesi “personally” but was “incredibly proud to see England on a stage like this”.
“When your partner is playing in one of the biggest games of his career, naturally you want him to be successful, too,” he said. “This will probably be the only game where I’ll be nervous for both sides.”
Mr Senesi hit the headlines this summer following the announcement of his transfer to Tottenham Hotspur. He was later called up late to represent his country at the World Cup after Leonardo Balerini was injured.
Ms Bowers, who plays for the England under-19 team, described watching her partner play on the biggest stage as “one of the most special yet nerve-wracking experiences” she has had while watching sport.
“As a player, you are so used to experiencing tournaments in a team environment, but watching from the stands was completely different,” he said.
“I loved being around the fans, experiencing the atmosphere and seeing the game from another perspective. It was also great to witness the quality, intensity and emotion of the tournament up close.”
But he admitted that it was difficult at times to turn off his instincts as a player: “You naturally notice the tactical details, the movements, the decisions the players are making and the pressure they are under,” he said. “It was also nice to experience the match as a fan and enjoy all the emotions without having to step foot on the pitch.”
He added: “I have the best intentions for both teams. Whatever the result, we’ll see.”
