Argentina face FIFA fine over Falklands banner after World Cup semi-final win
7 reported
Argentina face the prospect of a FIFA fine after their players celebrated a World Cup semi-final win against England with a banner supporting their country's claims to the Falkland Islands. The defending champions defeated England 2-1 in Atlanta to advance to the final against Spain. After the match, players held a banner reading "Las Malvinas son Argentinas," which translates to "The Falklands are Argentine." The UK and Argentina went to war over the Falklands in 1982, a conflict that resulted in 655 Argentine and 255 British servicemen deaths, plus three islander deaths. In 2014, FIFA fined the Argentine Football Association £20,000 for a similar banner before a friendly against Slovenia, citing rules on political action and team misconduct. Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni had said before the match he would not mix football and politics, while Argentina vice-president Victoria Villarruel posted on X that the match against England was "always something more."
What’s reported
Argentina defeated England 2-1 in the World Cup semi-final in Atlanta.
After the match, players held a banner reading "Las Malvinas son Argentinas" (The Falklands are Argentine).
The UK and Argentina went to war over the Falklands from April to June 1982.
The conflict killed 655 Argentine and 255 British servicemen, plus three islanders.
FIFA fined the Argentine Football Association £20,000 in 2014 for a similar banner before a friendly against Slovenia.
Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni said before the match he would not mix football and politics.
Argentina vice-president Victoria Villarruel posted on X that the match against England was "always something more."
Key figures
Lionel Scaloni, Argentina manager
Victoria Villarruel, Argentina vice-president
Thomas Tuchel, England manager (mentioned as coach of the opposing side)
Enzo Fernandez, Argentina player (scored a goal)
Lautaro Martinez, Argentina player (scored a goal)
Sources: BBC News
