Buenos Aires, August 6, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Argentina has officially declared July 15 as ‘National Football Teams Day’ to commemorate the national side’s dramatic victory over England in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final, while extending the honour to all national teams representing the country across football disciplines.
The decision was unanimously approved during the Executive Committee meeting of the Argentine Football Association (AFA) held at its training centre in Ezeiza.
The date marks Argentina’s memorable 2-1 comeback victory over England in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final. After conceding the opening goal through Anthony Gordon in the second half, Lionel Scaloni’s team staged a dramatic turnaround as Enzo Fernandez equalised in the 85th minute before Lautaro Martinez scored the decisive goal in stoppage time to secure Argentina’s place in the final.
Explaining the significance of the decision, the AFA said the date was selected to honour the historic triumph against England and the spirit shown by the team during the tournament.
“The date was chosen to commemorate Argentina’s historic victory over England in the 2026 World Cup semifinal. Lionel Scaloni’s team was trailing by a goal, but strikes from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez turned the match around and sparked nationwide celebrations,” the federation said.
The AFA clarified that the recognition is not restricted to the senior men’s team but applies to all Argentine national teams, including youth sides, women’s teams, futsal, beach soccer and other football squads.
“The tribute extends to every national team that trains daily at the Lionel Andres Messi training complex with the dream, passion and responsibility of representing Argentina,” the federation added.
The semi-final clash was among the most memorable matches of the tournament but also triggered controversy after celebrations by some Argentine players included references to the Falkland Islands, known in Argentina as the Malvinas. The remarks drew criticism in England and revived discussions surrounding the decades-old sovereignty dispute between the two nations.
The newly introduced National Football Teams Day will now be observed every year to celebrate Argentina’s football achievements and recognise the efforts of players and teams across various formats of the sport.
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