Argentina’s celebrations after their dramatic World Cup victory over Egypt have sparked fresh controversy after footage emerged of players singing a chant referencing the Falkland Islands. The incident has reignited political tensions ahead of a potential blockbuster semi-final against England, with British broadcaster Piers Morgan among those to respond.
La Albiceleste booked their place in the quarter-finals with a dramatic 3-2 comeback win over Egypt, a match that also generated controversy over refereeing decisions. As reported by GiveMeSport, celebrations inside the dressing room later showed several players, including Enzo Fernandez and Emiliano Martinez, singing the song La Cuarta Estrella (“The Fourth Star”).
The chant and its historical context
The chant includes references to the Malvinas—the Argentine name for the Falkland Islands, a British Overseas Territory at the centre of the 1982 Falklands War. The conflict claimed the lives of more than 900 people and remains an emotionally charged subject in both Argentina and the United Kingdom.
According to GiveMeSport, the lyrics also celebrate Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph, express hopes of winning a fourth World Cup title, and reference Diego Maradona’s controversial exit from the 1994 World Cup after failing a drugs test.
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One section of the song states: “I am Argentine from cradle to grave, for the Malvinas, for Diego, for Leo’s final chapter.” Another verse declares: “I want to see the fourth star shining on the jersey,” reflecting Argentina’s ambition to retain the World Cup and become back-to-back champions.
Long-standing rivalry with England
The timing of the chant has drawn particular attention because Argentina could face England in the semi-finals if both teams win their respective quarter-final matches.
The football rivalry between the two nations is among the sport’s fiercest, shaped by decades of memorable encounters. Diego Maradona’s infamous “Hand of God” goal during the 1986 World Cup and David Beckham’s red card in the 1998 tournament remain defining moments in the history between the two sides.
Piers Morgan responds
British broadcaster Piers Morgan reacted strongly after the footage circulated online.
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Posting on X, Morgan wrote: “Is that the same Falklands they tried to seize until our magnificent armed forces kicked their asses out again?”
His comments quickly gained traction on social media, adding further attention to an incident that has already become a talking point outside football.
Potential World Cup showdown
Before any meeting with England can happen, Argentina must first overcome Switzerland in the quarter-finals, while England need to beat Norway.
If both sides progress, the semi-final would already carry enormous footballing significance. Following the latest controversy, however, any meeting would also arrive with renewed political undertones, ensuring one of international football’s most historic rivalries once again dominates the global spotlight.
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