Argentina have reportedly submitted a request to FIFA regarding the kit they intend to wear during their World Cup semi-final clash with England. The Three Lions secured their place in the last four of the tournament following a victory over Norway in the quarter-final at the weekend.
England will face Argentina for a coveted spot in the World Cup final, with their opponents boasting an in-form Lionel Messi, who is co-leading the Golden Boot race with eight goals alongside France’s Kylian Mbappe. Argentina sealed a 3-1 triumph over Switzerland to book their spot in the World Cup semi-finals, and have now apparently lodged a request with FIFA concerning their forthcoming fixture with England.
Journalist Gaston Edul has claimed that Argentina have submitted a request to FIFA that they wear their all-blue kit as opposed to their blue and white strip.
On that occasion, Lionel Scaloni’s side wore the all-blue strip that Argentina are understood to have requested FIFA permission to wear against England.
Messi has proved instrumental in helping Argentina advance to the semi-finals, as they bid to defend the crown they claimed in the previous edition of the tournament in Qatar in 2022.
The Inter Miami superstar, following Argentina’s victory over Switzerland, shared his thoughts on the prospect of facing England in the semi-final for the very first time in his career.
Messi also spoke about the history between the two nations, with particular reference to the iconic 1986 World Cup quarter-final.
“Everything I have seen and remember [about Argentina vs. England from 1986] is from videos and images that Argentinians constantly watch and relive,” Messi said in an interview with ESPN Argentina. “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.
“Personally, it’s the first time I’m going to play against them. I’ve played against everyone except England, so it will be nice for that reason too.
“And we’ll experience it for what it is: a World Cup semi-final against a powerhouse, a great team, and we’ll try to arrive in the best possible shape to compete again.”