Argentina have made a special request to FIFA regarding their choice of kit ahead of the blockbuster 2026 World Cup semi-final clash against England in Atlanta.
The tournament holders booked their place in the last four with a 3-1 victory over Switzerland, setting up a highly anticipated showdown against the Three Lions, who edged a 2-1 win over Norway in the quarter-finals.
According to reports, Argentina have contacted football’s governing body requesting permission to wear their all-blue away kit instead of their iconic light blue and white striped home shirt. A final decision on the matter is expected to be delivered on Tuesday.
The world champions have donned their traditional home stripes in five of their six matches at the tournament so far. The only exception came during the group stage, when they wore the all-blue change strip during a 3-1 victory over Jordan.
While the request could simply be a practical decision given that England are designated as the official “home” team for the semi-final—many believe there is a deeper historical significance at play.
In Argentina, football culture is deeply rooted in cábala (superstition and good luck rituals).
Looking back at the historical World Cup rivalry between the two nations, Argentina wore their dark blue away jerseys during their most famous tournament victories over England; the historic 1986 quarter-final featuring Diego Maradona’s iconic goals, and the dramatic 1998 Round of 16 clash that was decided on penalties.
If FIFA grants the request on Tuesday, England are expected to take the pitch in their classic all-white home strip for Wednesday’s high-stakes encounter. InternationalSports Competitions