Argentina and England are set to face off in the 2026 World Cup semifinal in Atlanta, a match steeped in history between the two nations.

In April 1982, Argentina's military junta under General Leopoldo Galtieri invaded the Falkland Islands. UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher dispatched a task force of 26,000 troops, reclaiming the territory after 74 days of conflict ending on June 14, 1982.

Argentina's head coach Lionel Scaloni dismissed the historical context: "No, no, no. This is just a football match. Let's not look for other stuff. It's a football game against a great team, with a great manager who I admire. End of."

However, Argentina's Vice President Victoria Villarruel posted on social media: "Tomorrow we play against the usurping pirates. This isn't just another match. It's the Malvinas, it's Diego, it's Leo's last one, and it's putting the brakes on the invaders. Go Argentina!"

On the pitch, iconic moments include the 1966 quarterfinal where England won controversially, and the 1986 "Hand of God" goal by Diego Maradona, followed by his stunning solo effort. Maradona later wrote: "This was our revenge... recovering a part of the Malvinas."

In 1998, David Beckham was sent off as Argentina won on penalties. In 2002, Beckham scored a penalty to give England victory and eliminate Argentina.

Lionel Messi's Argentina aims to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to defend the World Cup. England seeks its first final since winning in 1966. The match promises to add another memorable chapter to one of football's greatest rivalries.

Source: www.dw.com