Argentine Vice President Victoria Villarruel has once again distanced herself from Javier Milei's administration ahead of the 2026 World Cup semifinal between Argentina and England. She stirred controversy by describing the British as "pirate usurpers" and "invaders," while reiterating Argentina's claim to sovereignty over the Falkland Islands.
According to reports from Política Argentina, Villarruel, who also serves as the Senate president, took to her X account on Wednesday to declare: "I'm not going to be politically correct or a coward; against the English, it's always something more."
Villarruel emphasized that the match goes beyond sports, linking it to some of the most significant symbols in both Argentine football and history. "It's about the Falklands, it's about Diego, it's Leo's last stand, and it's about halting the invaders," she stated, concluding with, "Because we will claim what's ours until our last breath!"
Her comments sharply contrast with the Argentine government's stance leading up to the match. Security Minister Alejandra Monteoliva endorsed FIFA's and U.S. authorities' decision to ban flags, shirts, or any items with political messages, including those about the Falkland Islands, from entering Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
"Argentine flag, yes, of course, or English, but nothing that contains a message that could provoke any situation. This decision was made to prevent any violent incidents," explained Monteoliva.
Villarruel's pronouncement coincided with the government's rejection of a request from the State Workers' Association (ATE), which sought to suspend public administration activities so employees could watch the semifinal. Although the vice president did not comment on that decision, her statement underscored the ongoing differences with the Casa Rosada.
Tensions between Villarruel and Milei have become increasingly evident in recent weeks. In July, they clashed over Villarruel's meeting with Chinese Ambassador Wang Wei in the Senate, the presidential speech on July 9, and speculations surrounding the 2027 elections.
The clash between Argentina and England reignites one of the fiercest rivalries in World Cup history. This will be their first encounter in a World Cup since 1998 in France and their sixth overall in World Cup history.
The symbolic weight of this match is still defined by the 1982 Falklands War and the unforgettable 1986 World Cup quarterfinal in Mexico, where Diego Maradona led Argentina to victory with the legendary "Goal of the Century" and the iconic "Hand of God."
Argentina progressed to the semifinals after a 3-1 extra-time victory over Switzerland, with goals from Alexis Mac Allister, Julián Álvarez, and Lautaro Martínez. For Lionel Messi, 39, this tournament likely marks his final World Cup appearance, a point highlighted by Villarruel in her message.
The winner of the Argentina-England match will face Spain in the World Cup final on July 19 at the stadium in New York/New Jersey.
Insights into the Argentina vs. England World Cup Clash
Why did Victoria Villarruel criticize England before the semifinal?
Victoria Villarruel criticized England by calling them "pirate usurpers" and "invaders" as part of Argentina's ongoing claim to sovereignty over the Falkland Islands, adding historical and political dimensions to the World Cup match.
What is the significance of the Argentina-England match in World Cup history?
The Argentina-England match is significant due to their historic rivalry, notably marked by the 1982 Falklands War and the 1986 World Cup game where Diego Maradona's "Hand of God" and "Goal of the Century" occurred.
What measures have been taken to prevent political messages at the match?
FIFA and U.S. authorities have banned any flags, shirts, or items with political messages, including those related to the Falkland Islands, from being brought into the Mercedes-Benz Stadium to prevent any potential violence.