It was a feisty, physical battle between England and Argentina, as both teams made a gritty start in the high-voltage FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final. With world-class talent like Jude Bellingham and Julian Alvarez competing against veterans like Lionel Messi and Harry Kane, with a place in the final up for grabs, and Spain already awaiting at the summit. While there was a genuine pre-match buzz about the historic clash, controversy erupted early in the first half, with several decisions made by the on-field referee appearing questionable to many fans, who felt Argentine players were favoured in some situations.
One of the major highlights was Enzo Fernandez’s elbow on Elliot Anderson. The replay soon circulated, as the Argentina midfielder was seen challenging Anderson for the ball, with his elbow hitting the Englishman on the back of his head, leaving him on the ground. Some fans even argued that it could have been a red, if the VAR had intervened.
Enzo Fernandez Escapes Card?
Many fans felt Enzo Fernandez deserved a card for the offence, as the contact looked brutal, with Elliot Anderson visibly in pain. The on-field referee Ismail Elfath didn’t turn to his pocket. Jude Bellingham also protested and appealed for a card, but Enzo escaped unpunished.
Watch Enzo Fernandez’s challenge here:
How on earth was this not a yellow card for Enzo Fernandez? Have referees started favouring Argentina already? 🙄! #ENGLAND� #ENGARG pic.twitter.com/kmERp38bBb
— viral videos 4 yu (@viral_video_4_U) July 15, 2026
Jude Bellingham Catches Alexis Mac Allister’s Toe
Another section of fans pointed at a challenge by Jude Bellingham. The England midfielder, while chasing the ball, stepped on Alexis Mac Allister’s toe. The referee called a foul, but didn’t show any card. Several Argentina players tried to catch the referee’s attention, but Ismail Elfath perhaps considered it a minor contact. One challenge on Lionel Messi also turned up the heat.
Watch Jude Bellingham’s foul here:
how’s this not a yellow card for Bellingham btw?? 🤔#ENGARG #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/h136daW0Pl
— El Chapo 🥷🏾 (@justtemi__) July 15, 2026
Despite an intense fight in the midfield, both teams struggled to showcase their A-quality finishing in the first half, with the England vs Argentina score reading 0-0 at the break.
