'Animals', Hand of God and Beckham - Argentina and England's World Cup rivalry
The article explores the long-standing football rivalry between England and Argentina ahead of their upcoming World Cup match. It highlights historical tensions, including the Falklands War, and reviews past encounters between the two nations.
Why it matters
This match carries significant cultural and historical weight beyond sports, reflecting decades of geopolitical tension between the two nations.
Image source, Getty Images By Andy Cryer BBC Sport senior journalist Published 20 minutes ago It's a footballing rivalry that goes back generations.
England v Argentina for a place in the World Cup final. Iconic. Generational. Classic. It's hard to find the words to do the occasion justice.
On Wednesday in Atlanta, Lionel Messi will be playing against England for the first time in his career as the defending world champions bid to stop Thomas Tuchel's Three Lions ending 60 years of hurt.
It's a World Cup rivalry that started back in 1962 and has featured wonder goals, controversy and red cards ever since.
But it's not just an on-field rivalry. Political tensions, especially around the Falklands War in the 1980s, dominate the relationship between the two nations. Argentina players and fans still reference the conflict in football songs.
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