The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has officially declared July 15 as ‘National Football Teams Day’ to commemorate Argentina’s dramatic 2-1 World Cup semi-final win over England in 2026.
The decision was approved unanimously during Wednesday’s AFA executive council meeting, with the governing body describing the win as one of the most memorable moments in the country’s football history.
In a statement, the AFA said: “The date was chosen to commemorate the Albiceleste’s great and historic victory over England in the semi-final of the 2026 World Cup.
“The team, led by Lionel Scaloni, were trailing the English side by a single goal but, thanks to goals from Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez, managed to turn the result around and send the whole country into a frenzy, with people flooding the streets in celebration.”
Argentina came from behind in the closing stages of the semi-final, scoring twice in the final five minutes to book a place in a second consecutive World Cup final.
Win marred by controversial scenes
The victory was followed by controversy, however, as Argentina’s players unveiled a banner reading “Las Malvinas son Argentinas” (The Malvinas are Argentinian), referring to the Falkland Islands.
The display prompted criticism in England, with the UK government calling on FIFA to investigate the political message.
Argentina went on to lose the World Cup final to Spain, with the match ending in violent scenes that resulted in FIFA opening disciplinary proceedings against Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina and assistant coach Roberto Ayala.
The AFA also faced investigations over the Falklands banner, as well as allegations of racist abuse and inappropriate chanting.
Argentina president Javier Milei defended the players’ actions, describing the banner as “perfectly valid” and saying it reflected “a sentiment shared by all Argentines”, although he acknowledged FIFA could impose sanctions.
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