World Cup 2026: England and Argentina semi-final to have extra security, say authorities
Authorities say security measures will be increased for the World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina on Wednesday.
The pair will continue one of international football’s most storied rivalries at the Atlanta Stadium as England look to defeat the reigning champions and reach their first World Cup final since 1966.
Atlanta police are aware of the historical tensions between the two countries.
In 1982, Britain and Argentina fought the Falklands War, a brief 74-day conflict that resulted in the deaths of 649 Argentine soldiers, 255 British combatants and three civilians. The British overseas territory known in Argentina as Las Malvinas remains the subject of a sovereignty dispute between the two countries.
“As Atlanta prepares to host the upcoming Fifa World Cup semi-final match and welcomes an increasing number of residents and visitors, the Atlanta Police Department has enhanced its citywide public safety and security posture,” Atlanta Police said in a statement.
“Additional staff and resources have already been deployed and will continue to be deployed strategically in and around event venues, entertainment districts and other high-traffic areas to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
“These proactive measures are designed to protect the public, deter criminal activity, and ensure residents and visitors can safely enjoy this historic event.”
After Argentina defeated Egypt 3-2 in the last 16, the players were seen singing the hymn referring to the islands and Argentina’s great stars Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi.
While Maradona scored the famous Hand of God goal to inspire Argentina to beat England in the 1986 World Cup quarter-finals, captain Messi will face the Three Lions for the first time in his illustrious career.
While preparations for the World Cup match, which will be played between the sides for the first time in 24 years, continue, the Argentine war veterans’ federation called on fans to focus on football rather than politics between the two countries.
“Sovereignty is defended through diplomacy in international forums, historical facts, and the peaceful, indisputable rights enshrined in our national constitution,” the April 2 War Veterans Federation said in a statement. he said.
“We think it is important to draw a clear and unchanging line between passion for sport and the national cause.
“The ball gets rolling, our pride in our colors grows, but our memory remains intact.”
Earlier this week England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford said it was “just a game of football” and predicted “football will be talking” during the match.
Police praised the behavior of England fans in the US but urged supporters at home to follow their example after more than 500 domestic football-related incidents over the weekend.
The events in England took place on Saturday, when more than 100 people were arrested during extra time when England beat Norway 2-1.
