Lionel Messi continued his remarkable FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign by delivering another match-winning performance for Argentina. The captain produced two brilliant assists in Argentina’s 2-1 victory over England in the semifinal at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Messi has already extended his record as the tournament’s all-time leading goalscorer with 21 goals and also sits atop the World Cup assist charts with 12.
However, the post-match celebrations drew attention for reasons beyond the result. Videos circulating on social media appeared to show some Argentina supporters spitting on and stamping on an England flag after the semifinal win, sparking widespread discussion online.
Viral Videos Capture Argentina Fans Stepping On England Flag Following World Cup Semifinal Victory
Much of the post-match attention focused on videos showing Argentina fans spitting on and stepping over an England flag after their team’s victory. However, that was not the only flag-related incident surrounding the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal. Reports and viral clips also showed a group of Argentina supporters burning the Union Jack during a pre-match gathering, believing it represented England.
🇦🇷 In a heated display of passion, Argentina fans were captured spitting on and trampling the England flag underfoot amid celebrations.pic.twitter.com/DlAQy8Sf1Z
— GlobePulses (@GlobePulses) July 16, 2026
🚨 Argentina fans burn English flag during World Cup celebrations 😳
Amid celebrations for Argentina’s qualification to the World Cup final, a group of fans was captured setting fire to an English flag in the middle of a crowded street. 🏴🔥 pic.twitter.com/aeYJYWCPQy
— Ultras Clips (@ultras_clips) July 16, 2026
The incident took place during a “banderazo” in Escobar, Buenos Aires Province, where supporters set the flag on fire. The act drew widespread reactions online, as England’s national football team plays under the St. George’s Cross rather than the Union Jack, which represents the United Kingdom. Some observers suggested the use of the Union Jack may have been linked to the historical tensions stemming from the 1982 Falklands War between Argentina and the UK.
The buildup to the semifinal was already marked by heightened tensions. Reports claimed some Argentina supporters displayed banners believed to have been taken from England fans, while political chants referencing the Falkland Islands (Las Malvinas) also attracted attention.
How Argentina Defeated England To Reach The FIFA World Cup 2026 Final
Lionel Messi delivered another match-winning performance as Argentina booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final with a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over England at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. England looked on course for a famous win after Anthony Gordon put the Three Lions ahead in the 55th minute, but Argentina mounted a late fightback. Enzo Fernández equalized in the 85th minute from Messi’s assist before substitute Lautaro Martínez headed home another Messi delivery deep into stoppage time to seal a stunning comeback. The victory sends the defending champions into Sunday’s World Cup final against Spain in New Jersey, while England’s wait for another World Cup final appearance continues.
