England will face old foes Argentina in Atlanta on Wednesday in a World Cup semi-final, but there are fears that things will turn ugly both outside and inside of the 75,000-seater stadium
Police are on red alert for the World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina in Atlanta, where there’s set to be limited segregation. The two countries will face-off at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta which boasts a capacity of 75,000 and is located in the city centre.
Officers have been made aware of the historical context behind the match. England and Argentina have history both on and off the pitch, stretching from Diego Maradona’s infamous Hand of God goal at the 1986 World Cup to the war over Falkland Islands, which Argentina’s players sung about after beating Switzerland on Sunday.
The teams also haven’t played each other for more than two decades. Although tickets purchased via the respective national federations are in designated areas, tickets sold by FIFA allow for rival fans to sit next to one another.
Police are braced for a 50-50 split between supporters, with both countries well backed during the tournament so far thanks to expats or those travelling from home. England’s fans have been praised for their behaviour, with only four arrests in Miami on Saturday night as the Three Lions beat Norway 2-1 after extra-time to reach the last four for only the second time since 1990.
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Atalanta Police Department issued a statement saying: “As Atlanta prepares to host an upcoming World Cup semi-final match and welcomes increased numbers of residents and visitors, the Atlanta Police Department has enhanced its citywide public safety and security posture.
“Additional personnel and resources are already deployed and will continue to be strategically assigned in and around the event venues, entertainment districts, and other high-traffic areas to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
“These proactive measures are designed to protect the public, deter criminal activity, and ensure residents and visitors can safely enjoy this historic event.”
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When England last played in Atlanta in the round of 32, they vastly outnumbered the DR Congo fans. But Argentina are set to bring thousands of supporters, as they bid to win their second World Cup on the bounce.
Argentina midfielder Rodrigo De Paul is aware of the history between his nation and England, but wants the football to take centre stage. “It’s a match that brings back many memories because of what Diego did and because of ’86,” De Paul said after his side’s 3-1 extra-time victory over Switzerland in Kansas City.
“And on top of that, because of the songs, reminds us of the Malvinas (Falklands) and its heroes. But we have to understand that the Malvinas must be discussed in other places.”
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