Argentine fans burn British flag ahead of world cup semifinal against England

BUENOS AIRES, July 15 (YPA) – Tensions have flared ahead of the highly anticipated 2026 World Cup semifinal between Argentina and England, after a group of Argentine supporters burned a United Kingdom flag in the city of Escobar, near the capital Buenos Aires.

A widely circulated video captured fans setting the flag on fire amid cheering and chants of “Whoever doesn’t jump is English.” The footage was reportedly filmed following Argentina’s quarterfinal victory over Switzerland, which coincided with England securing its qualification on the same day.

The sporting rivalry between the two nations carries deep-seated historical undertones dating back to the 1982 Falklands War, though their national football teams have not faced each other since a friendly match in 2005.

The incident has triggered widespread reactions on social media platforms, with several commentators pointing out that the English national team officially competes under the St. George’s Cross rather than the Union Jack (the UK flag).

YPA