The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has officially declared July 15 as National Football Teams Day to commemorate Argentinas dramatic 2-1 World Cup semi-final win over England in 2026. The decision was approved unanimously during Wednesdays AFA executive council meeting, with the governing body describing the win as one of the most memorable moments in the countrys football history.In a statement, the AFA said: The date was chosen to commemorate the Albicelestes great and historic victory over England in the semi-final of the 2026 World Cup.The team, led by Lionel Scaloni, were trailing the English side by a single goal but, thanks to goals from Enzo Fernndez and Lautaro Martnez, managed to turn the result around and send the whole country into a frenzy, with people flooding the streets in celebration.Argentina came from behind in the closing stages of the semi-final, scoring twice in the final five minutes to book a place in a second consecutive World Cup final.Win marred by controversial scenesThe victory was followed by controversy, however, as Argentinas players unveiled a banner reading Las Malvinas son Argentinas (The Malvinas are Argentinian), referring to the Falkland Islands.The display prompted criticism in England, with the UK government calling on FIFA to investigate the political message.Argentina went on to lose the World Cup final to Spain, with the match ending in violent scenes that resulted in FIFA opening disciplinary proceedings against Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina and assistant coach Roberto Ayala.The AFA also faced investigations over the Falklands banner, as well as allegations of racist abuse and inappropriate chanting.Argentina president Javier Milei defended the players actions, describing the banner as perfectly valid and saying it reflected a sentiment shared by all Argentines, although he acknowledged FIFA could impose sanctions. Topics Argentina National Football Team England National Football Team Add us as a preferred source on Google If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read BREAKING: FIFA charges Argentina players over World Cup final conduct and opens case over Falklands banner Nicholas McGee 29th July, 2026 Otamendi announces Argentina retirement after 17-year international career Mitch Fretton 24th July, 2026 Spain boss De La Fuente slams unacceptable and intolerable Argentina behaviour Nicholas McGee 24th July, 2026 Gavi calls for Paredes to avoid suspension despite World Cup final bust-up Nicholas McGee 22nd July, 2026 Argentina coach Roberto Ayala to apologise to Dani Olmo in person but says clash was a push, not a punch Jon Fisher 22nd July, 2026 Worth as much as the gold medal Yamal reveals Messi message after Spains World Cup triumph over Argentina Nicholas McGee 22nd July, 2026
