Following their 2-1 victory against England in the World Cup 2026 semi-final, some Argentinian players celebrated with a banner proclaiming, "Malvinas Islands belong to Argentina." Fans appeared to bring the banner into the stadium and threw it onto the field for the players.

However, unlike his teammates, goalkeeper Martinez avoided taking a definitive stance on sovereignty when asked about the dispute's impact on the match. "No, I don't think it has anything to do with that. That belongs to the past. I wasn't even born during that period," said the goalkeeper, born in 1992.

Martinez (right) saves during Argentina's comeback victory against England in the World Cup 2026 semi-final on 15/7, in Atlanta, United States. *Photo: AP*

Martinez's statement sparked anger among many Argentinian fans. Some believed he should not have spoken so indifferently, calling his actions shameful or accusing him of betraying his homeland for money.

One fan posted photos of Argentinian soldiers on planes traveling to or from the Malvinas Islands, adding the caption: "Let me introduce you, my friend. They may not be as good at saving balls as you, but they understand what homeland means. That's a feeling you can't have."

The Malvinas (also known as the Falklands) are located approximately 500 km from Argentina but remain under British control. Both countries have claimed sovereignty over the islands since the 19th century. In 1982, Argentina launched a military attack on the Malvinas to reclaim them but ultimately failed.

Subsequent sporting contests with England have frequently served as an opportunity for Argentinians to assert their claim over the islands. One of their rallying cries at the World Cup 2026 is: "For Malvinas, for Diego, for Leo Messi's last tournament."

Some Argentinian players celebrate with a banner about the Malvinas Islands after their 2-1 victory against England in the World Cup 2026 semi-final on 15/7, in Atlanta, United States. *Photo: AFP*

Following the incident where some Argentinian national team players celebrated with a Malvinas banner, British politicians and fans called for the work permits of Argentinian players currently competing in England to be revoked. Six Argentinian national team members participating in the World Cup are owned by Premier League clubs, including Emiliano Martinez (Aston Villa Club), Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool), Enzo Fernandez (Chelsea), Lisandro Martinez (Man Utd), Cristian Romero, and Marcos Senesi (Tottenham).

In the semi-final on the evening of 15/7, Argentina secured a 2-1 comeback victory against England. Enzo Fernandez scored with a long-range shot in the 85th minute, followed by Lautaro Martinez's header in the 90+2 minute. Anthony Gordon had previously tapped in to open the scoring for England in the 55th minute.

Martinez represents a unique success story for Argentina. In just 5 years, he transformed from a relatively unknown name to an indispensable component of the national team's lineup. The arrival of the goalkeeper born in 1992 also marked a significant milestone, ending Argentina's 28-year title drought and ushering in a streak of four championships: Copa America 2021, 2023, Finalissima 2022, and World Cup 2022.

He and his teammates will play the World Cup 2026 final against Spain on 19/7, while England will compete for third place against France tonight.

Key moments of the World Cup 2026 semi-final on 15/7: Argentina 2-1 England.

Thanh Quy (via X)