Argentina’s preparations for their blockbuster World Cup semi-final against England took an unexpected turn, with the reigning champions making a special request regarding the kit they will wear in Atlanta.
While this decision may seem trivial compared to team selection and tactics, uniforms often have emotional and historical significance in international football.
Argentina and England are one of the most famous rivals in the World Cup, so the color choice has already generated another topic of conversation ahead of Wednesday’s meeting.
Argentina awaits FIFA decision on blue kit
According to journalist Gaston Eddur, Argentina have asked for permission to wear the blue away kit against England.
A final decision is expected to be made on Tuesday, the day before both teams compete for a spot in the World Cup finals.
Argentina have only worn the blue strip once during this tournament, in a 3-1 win over Jordan in the group stage.
England have been named the home team for the semi-final, which provides a practical explanation for Argentina’s demands, but the traditional light blue and white shirts do not necessarily create a major color clash.
There may also be an element of superstition. Argentina wore darker away colors in their famous World Cup wins over England in 1986 and 1998, giving the shirt a hint of good fortune.
Historical rivalry adds meaning to unusual demands
The Football Association has announced that England and Argentina will play in Atlanta on Wednesday 15th July at 8pm BST.
England defeated Norway 2-1 in extra time to advance to the final four, while Argentina defeated Switzerland 3-1 in the quarter-finals.
Kit requests add an extra layer of intrigue to an already huge match.
Argentina are usually instantly recognizable when they wear their striped home shirt, but their dark blue kit is steeped in their history against England.
After all, color doesn’t determine the outcome. Tactics, fitness and handling pressure become much more important.
Still, soccer is full of rituals, and if Argentina believes the blue shirt gives it some psychological lift, it makes sense that it would want to wear it.
‘He really doesn’t understand’ – Jude Bellingham hits back at Thomas Tuchel’s criticism of England
