The World Cup semi‑final between England and Argentina is often reduced to a simple grudge match – a bitter feud fueled by handballs, war and mutual loathing. But a new video essay from The Guardian’s Jonathan Liew argues the truth is far more complex and, in its own way, deeply romantic.
The Roots of an Obsession
The rivalry was born not in hatred but in imitation. British expatriates brought football, tea and polo to Argentina in the late 19th century, raising a “faithful son” in their own image. Argentine clubs such as Boca Juniors and River Plate were founded by British immigrants, and the early game was steeped in English customs. As Liew explains, a nationalist backlash eventually turned this cultural inheritance into rejection, setting the stage for an antagonism that would explode on the pitch.
Iconic Clashes and a Long Absence
The World Cup has provided the perfect stage for this duel. Diego Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ in 1986, David Beckham’s red card in 1998, and Michael Owen’s magical solo goal are etched into both nations’ folklore. Yet for all the animosity, the teams have not met in over 20 years. Lionel Messi, arguably the greatest player of all time, has never faced England. That scarcity, the essay contends, has preserved the rivalry’s mystique. In an era of over‑saturated football, the absence has only deepened the mutual fascination.
The Romantic Scarcity
“Love and hate collide,” Liew says, suggesting that beneath the surface hostility is a profound mutual reverence. Argentina’s obsession with English football and England’s grudging admiration for the nation that consistently breaks their hearts create a feedback loop that no commercial rematch can dilute. As Thomas Tuchel noted ahead of the semi‑final, Argentina are a side “fuelled by history,” and that history is inseparable from England. Such passion cannot be manufactured – it is earned over decades.
The 2026 semi‑final in Atlanta thus arrives with a weight that feels almost mythical. England have prepared meticulously, practising penalties every session since the tournament began, aware that destiny might again hinge on a single kick. For Argentina, the chance to inflict fresh wounds – or heal old ones – is irresistible.
Whether the contest ends in glory or heartbreak, the Guardian’s analysis reminds us that this fixture transcends sport. It is a story of empire, identity and a love that dares not speak its name – except when the final whistle blows.