14/07/2026 18:24 - Deportes
Excitement overflows among Argentine fans ahead of July 15, 2026, at 16:00, when the Argentine National Team faces England at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. This match, valid for the 2026 World Cup semifinals, promises to be historic. It will be the first time Lionel Messi (39 years old) faces the Three Lions at the senior level, arriving with an astonishing 8 goals in the tournament and 21 goals in World Cups throughout his career.
Argentina reaches this stage after chaining six consecutive victories: 3-0 against Algeria, 2-0 against Austria, 3-1 against Jordan, 3-2 against Cape Verde, 3-2 against Egypt (won in stoppage time after being 2-0 down), and 3-1 against Switzerland. The team, affectionately known as 'La Scaloneta' (a term derived from coach Lionel Scaloni's name, symbolizing a winning and resilient project), demonstrates its hierarchy and resilience in the most difficult moments.
According to Infobae, coach Lionel Scaloni held the final training session at the Atlanta United Training Ground before about 350 journalists, rehearsing at least two different structures.
In the first part, he tested a back-three line with Nicolás Otamendi, Cristian Romero, and Lisandro Martínez. The defensive block was completed by Nahuel Molina and Giuliano Simeone as wing-backs. The midfield featured Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes, and Alexis Mac Allister, leaving Julián Álvarez and Messi up front.
In a second phase, he introduced variants that modified the scheme: Enzo Fernández for De Paul, Nicolás González for Simeone, and Nicolás Tagliafico for Otamendi, switching to a back-four line. De Paul acknowledged that his starting spot is not guaranteed. The mystery is open!
The match draws special attention from FIFA and U.S. security forces. According to TyC Sports, the Atlanta Police Department will deploy 1,600 police officers to ensure safety.
Argentina's Minister of Security, Alejandra Monteoliva, confirmed that the fans' entrance to the stadium will be separated, an unprecedented measure in this World Cup to prevent riots.
Regarding political expressions, FIFA prohibits flags and items with messages, including those referencing the Falkland Islands (known as Islas Malvinas in Argentina, a territory whose sovereignty is claimed by the South American country). A fan known as 'Tato' had his drum confiscated by Dallas police and later returned after lacking the entity's permit. The phrase 'for the Falklands, for Diego, for Leo's last' echoes in the hearts of fans, even if it must be sung without explicit flags.
Alexis Mac Allister drew a parallel with the historic 1986 Mexico World Cup match (where Argentina beat England thanks to Diego Maradona's legendary 'Hand of God' and 'Goal of the Century'), mentioning the late icon. Furthermore, Argentina will wear its blue and black away kit, evoking unforgettable memories of that glorious past. La Scaloneta seeks to write its own golden page, separating politics from sports while playing with the heart of an entire nation. Come on, Argentina!
Alfredo S. Quiroga
