Argentina ask to wear blue away kit in World Cup semi-final against England

Argentina have made a special request to FIFA ahead of their World Cup semi-final against England, asking for permission to wear their blue away shirt instead of the traditional sky blue and white stripes. The reigning champions are set to face England in Atlanta on Wednesday for a place in the final, but attention has shifted to an unexpected off-field issue before kickoff.

"Argentina have asked for permission to wear their blue away shirt instead of their famous sky blue and white stripes."

GB NewsArgentina make unusual World Cup request before England World Cup semi-final showdown

According to Argentine journalist Gastón Edul, as reported by GB News, the request has been lodged with world football’s governing body, and a final decision is expected on Tuesday, less than 24 hours before the match. The encounter marks the first time England and Argentina have met in the World Cup in 24 years, as noted by LADbible.

LADbibleArgentina 'make urgent request' to FIFA ahead of World Cup semi-final against England

The move has raised eyebrows, with some outlets suggesting it could be a psychological tactic. SPORTbible asked, "Could this be mind games from the defending champions?" The kits themselves carry deeper meaning, as CaughtOffside noted.

2 sources

CaughtOffsideArgentina make special request to FIFA ahead of their World Cup semi against EnglandSPORTbibleArgentina make special request to FIFA days before England game with final decision expected on Tuesday

"Shirts often carry emotional and historical meaning in international football."

Reports from HITC, GiveMeSport, and Metro have also covered the story, with Metro indicating that FIFA have confirmed the decision. England, managed by Thomas Tuchel, will face Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina in what is expected to be a blockbuster semi-final under the Atlanta lights.

3 sources

HITCArgentina make match request ahead of facing England in the World Cup semi-finalGiveMeSportArgentina 'Make Special Request to FIFA' Before England World Cup ClashMetroFIFA confirm World Cup semi-final decision after Argentina make ‘special request’