World Cup rivalry between Argentina and England: from 'animals' to 'Hand of God'

Roots of the rivalry

England and Argentina's World Cup rivalry began in 1962 in Chile, when England won 3–1. It was a tame affair compared to later matches. Both teams advanced from the group, but England had a better goal difference; they later lost to Brazil in the quarter-finals.

1966: Controversy and accusations

The quarter-final in England sparked the real rivalry. England won 1–0, but Argentina to this day claims Geoff Hurst's goal was offside. The biggest controversy was Argentina captain Antonio Rattin's red card after 33 minutes – he not only fouled but argued with the referee and refused to leave the pitch, causing an eight-minute delay. England manager Alf Ramsey called the Argentine players 'animals'. This match is believed to have led to the introduction of yellow and red cards for the 1970 World Cup.

1986: Hand of God and Falklands legacy

The quarter-final in Mexico came just four years after the Falklands War, so political tension was huge. The Argentine media and public saw the match as a way to express resentment. Diego Maradona punched the ball into the net to give Argentina the lead – later called the 'Hand of God'. He then scored one of the greatest World Cup goals ever, dribbling past half the England team. Gary Lineker pulled one back, but Argentina won 2–1 and later became world champions. Maradona apologised only in 2005, but Shilton rejected the apology.

1998: Beckham's red card

In the round of 16 in France, David Beckham was provoked by Diego Simeone and kicked out, earning a red card. Before that, Batistuta and Shearer had traded penalties, and Michael Owen scored one of England's greatest World Cup goals. Javier Zanetti equalised. England held on, and Sol Campbell even scored, but it was disallowed. Argentina won on penalties. Simeone later admitted he exaggerated the fall to get Beckham sent off.

2002: Beckham's redemption

In a group stage match in Japan, Beckham, now England captain, scored from the penalty spot after Mauricio Pochettino fouled Owen. This was a crucial win for England, while Argentina failed to advance from the group for the first time since 1962. England later lost to Brazil in the quarter-finals.

Conclusion

Although England leads in official matches, Argentina has often come out on top in the most significant games. The two sides will meet again on Wednesday in Atlanta, where Lionel Messi will play against England for the first time.