Argentina's World Cup semifinal buildup fueled by songs of historical rivalry with England

Argentina is buzzing with anticipation for the 2026 World Cup semifinal against England, channeling nationalistic fervor into a wave of online songs. These new anthems reflect the deep-seated historical rivalry between the two nations, referencing both the 1982 Falklands War and legendary football clashes.

One popular chant, 'La cuarta estrella,' has gained significant traction, with players themselves joining in. Its lyrics invoke the Falklands conflict, honor the memory of Diego Maradona, and acknowledge Lionel Messi's likely final World Cup appearance. Another song, by performer Pedro Saubidet and his daughter, directly references Maradona's controversial "Hand of God" goal against England in the 1986 World Cup and his former coach Carlos Bilardo.

Fans have also spread songs with defiant messages, such as "England, wait a little longer, we're going to meet soon," and "The English are scared because they know this band has balls." Another poignant lyric connects the current team's fight to the young Argentine soldiers who fought in the Falklands War, stating, "For Argentina I will give my life, like the boys in the Malvinas, oh England I ask you for a fight."

The intense atmosphere extends beyond social media, with fans at matches and in public squares chanting traditional rivalrous songs. A common refrain heard after Argentina's quarterfinal victory over Switzerland was, "And you already see it, and you already see it, whoever doesn't jump is an Englishman," accompanied by widespread jumping celebrations.