Celebration Turns to Controversy as FIFA Targets Argentina
Argentina’s jubilant celebrations after reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup final have been clouded by the prospect of disciplinary action over a banner displayed by players following their victory against England.
The reigning world champions secured a dramatic 2-1 comeback win in the semi-final after Anthony Gordon had given England the lead in the 55th minute.
Argentina fought back late, with Enzo Fernández equalising before Lautaro Martínez netted the winner in stoppage time. Lionel Messi provided the assists for both goals to send his side into another World Cup final.
Moments after the final whistle, several Argentina players celebrated with a banner reading “Las Malvinas son Argentinas” (“The Falkland Islands are Argentine”), a slogan linked to the long-running sovereignty dispute between Argentina and the United Kingdom.
The message references the Falkland Islands, known in Argentina as Las Malvinas, whose ownership has remained a source of diplomatic tension for decades.
The dispute culminated in the 1982 Falklands War, during which hundreds of British and Argentine service personnel were killed.
FIFA’s regulations prohibit political, ideological and religious messages at competitions organised by the governing body.
The post-match display has therefore prompted speculation that football’s world governing body could open disciplinary proceedings against Argentina.
Despite the growing controversy, Argentina remain on course to face Spain in Sunday’s World Cup final as they attempt to defend the title they won four years ago.
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