FIFA has confirmed that Argentina will wear their navy blue away kit for Wednesday's World Cup semi-final against England, following a 'special request' from the reigning champions. The decision allows Argentina to don the same colour worn by Diego Maradona during the iconic 1986 quarter-final, where he scored the 'Hand of God' goal and a stunning solo effort to eliminate England.
Argentina's kit switch approved
Argentina, who usually play in white and light blue stripes, submitted the request to gain a psychological edge, according to journalist Gaston Edul. FIFA's official Match Colour Designation release confirmed the change, with Argentina wearing navy blue shirts, white shorts, and red socks. England will play in their traditional white kit, with goalkeeper Jordan Pickford wearing the same yellow jersey from the quarter-final win over Norway.
The navy blue kit has been used only once before in this World Cup, during Argentina's group-stage victory over Jordan. The 2022 champions advanced to the semi-finals after a 3-1 extra-time win against Switzerland, with goals from Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez.
Historical rivalry renewed
This will be the sixth World Cup meeting between the two nations. England have won three of the previous encounters, most recently in 2002. Argentina also wore navy blue when they knocked England out in 1998, a match remembered for David Beckham's red card after kicking Diego Simeone. The teams last met in a friendly in 2005, with England winning 3-2 thanks to two late goals from Michael Owen.
Remarkably, Wednesday's match will be the first time Lionel Messi faces England. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner said: 'The truth is, yes, it is always special to play against the big teams. It never happened to me against England, it's the first time, so it's going to be a special match, a World Cup semi-final.'
Messi reflects on the occasion
Messi added: 'Obviously, everything I saw and remember is from videos and images that Argentinians constantly watch and relive [from 1986]. But I think this group is used to playing football matches regardless of the opponent. Obviously, playing against England is special because they are a powerhouse, and matches against powerhouses are always special.'
England reached the semi-finals under Thomas Tuchel by beating Norway 2-1 in Miami, with Jude Bellingham inspiring the comeback. The match will be held at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
