Argentina to mark every July 15 with the World Cup win that revived the Falklands dispute

Argentina is observing July 15 as National Football Teams Day to honor the team's 2-1 victory over England in the 2026 World Cup semi-final. This historic win, led by coach Lionel Scaloni, came after goals by Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez, who were both assisted by Lionel Messi. The AFA confirmed that the recognition extends to all national teams, including youth, men's, women's, futsal, beach football, and field football, that train at the Lionel Andrés Messi complex.

The celebration took place on July 15, when players unfurled a banner with the message "Las Malvinas son argentinas" (The Falklands are Argentine) in front of the stands. The British government denounced this gesture and requested FIFA to investigate, considering it a political demonstration at an official competition. FIFA rules prohibit political messaging during its events, resulting in disciplinary proceedings against the AFA and several players, including Giovani Lo Celso, Cristian Romero, and Lisandro Martínez.

The case is still open, with no sanctions decided yet. Argentine President Javier Milei supported the players, stating that the celebration is valid and reflects the sentiment of many Argentines, though he expected a fine from FIFA. The AFA also intends to donate the banner to Falklands War veterans. The United Kingdom has been governing the Falkland Islands since 1833, and a 2013 referendum saw islanders overwhelmingly vote to remain as a British overseas territory. Argentina continues to claim sovereignty over the islands.