When Was the Last Time Argentina and England Faced Each Other? The History Between Both Teams

Argentina and England meet again in a World Cup semifinal with a history full of tension, epic moments, and unforgettable memories.

Rivalry with deep roots

The clash between Argentina and England in the semifinals of the 2026 World Cup revives a history that goes beyond football and connects with the identity of both countries. From the first clash in Chile 1962, with an English victory of 3-1, to the controversial match in England 1966, the tension kept growing. That expulsion of Antonio Rattín, who refused to leave the field and crushed a British corner flag, marked a before and after. The coach Alf Ramsey called the Argentines "animals," and that phrase became etched as a symbol of a confrontation filled with pride and resentment.

The milestone of Mexico 1986

The most memorable chapter came in the quarter-finals of Mexico 1986, when Diego Maradona scored two eternal goals in the 2-1 against England with the "Hand of God" and the "Goal of the Century." That match not only secured a spot in the semifinals but also solidified a myth that still resonates in every encounter between the two countries. France 1998 added another thrilling episode with the 2-2 draw and Argentina's qualification by penalties, in a match marked by David Beckham's expulsion after a clash with Simeone. The most recent precedent in World Cups was in Japan-Korea 2002 when England won 1-0 in the group stage and Marcelo Bielsa's Argentina was eliminated in the first round, a harsh blow for a generation that arrived with high expectations.

Historical and present balance

In World Cups, England dominates with three victories, one draw that led to an Argentine triumph by penalties, and a single Albiceleste victory in 1986. The overall record adds four English victories, five draws in friendlies, and only one Argentine victory, which reflects the difficulty of the Albiceleste to prevail in this classic. The recent death of Antonio Rattín, the captain in 1966, adds an emotional touch to this semifinal in Atlanta.

The complete history in the World Cup

Argentina 1-3 England, first round - Chile World Cup 1962.
Argentina 0-1 England, quarter-finals - World Cup in England 1966.
Argentina 2-1 England, quarter-finals - Mexico World Cup 1986.
Argentina 2-2 England, Round of 16 - 1998 France World Cup, 6-5 Argentine victory on penalties