The buildup to the semifinal between the Argentine National Team and England was marked by a climate of maximum tension in the stands of the Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The national anthems were enveloped in whistles, chants, and boos that reflected the historic rivalry between both fan bases, despite the calming message that Lionel Scaloni had conveyed before the match.
Although the coach of the Albiceleste had tried to downplay the drama of the match by stating that it was merely "a football match," the atmosphere in Atlanta made it clear that the duel transcended sports for the supporters.
During the performance of the English anthem, the thousands of Argentine fans present in the stadium made their presence felt with the classic chant: "And you can see it, and you can see it, the one who doesn't jump is an Englishman," preventing the British national song from being heard clearly as the cameras focused on the English players.
