Argentina’s victory over England in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final sparked massive celebrations across Buenos Aires, but some fans drew criticism after burning England flags and displaying coffins decorated with the St George’s Cross. Videos and photos also showed supporters chanting songs linked to the Falklands War, while some carried Falklands-themed flags during the celebrations.The Falkland Islands became a major talking point before, during and after the match. Ahead of the game, Argentina’s Vice President referred to England as “usurping pirates”, while President Javier Milei reiterated his country’s claim over the islands, saying, “We are doing everything humanly possible to bring the Falkland Islands back into Argentine hands. Sovereignty is not negotiable.”During the match, fans from both countries booed each other’s national anthems. Following the match, however, it was the clips of Argentina fans burning England flags that have been making the rounds on social media.Watch:After Argentina’s 2-1 comeback win in Atlanta, several players celebrated with a banner reading “Las Malvinas son Argentinas” (The Falklands are Argentine). Tottenham defender Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez and Giovani Lo Celso were among those seen posing with it. Argentina had previously been fined by FIFA in 2014 for displaying a similar banner before a friendly.Lionel Messi helped Argentina overturn an early deficit by setting up two late goals to send the defending champions into the World Cup final and eliminate England. After the game, midfielder Leandro Paredes reinforced Argentina’s stance, saying the Falklands “will always be Argentine”.The celebrations also extended to Ushuaia, where fans gathered near a Falklands War veterans’ memorial. Britain and Argentina fought the 1982 Falklands War after Argentina invaded the islands. The conflict claimed the lives of hundreds on both sides, and the islands have remained a British Overseas Territory since then. Reports suggest FIFA could again review Argentina’s post-match celebrations over the political banner.
