The Argentine Vice President Victoria Villarruel once again distanced herself from Javier Milei's government on the eve of the 2026 World Cup semifinal between Argentina and England, by posting a message in which she referred to the British as "usurping pirates" and "invaders" and reaffirmed the claim for sovereignty over the Falkland Islands.
According to Política Argentina, the head of the Senate also wrote on her X account this Wednesday: "I will not be politically correct or cold-hearted, against the English it's always something more."
Villarruel stated that the meeting goes beyond sports and connects with some of the greatest symbols of football and Argentine history. "It’s about Malvinas, it’s about Diego, it’s the last of Leo, and it’s about putting a stop to the invaders," he expressed, before concluding: "Because until our last breath, we will claim what is ours!"
Her statements contrast with the stance taken by the Argentine Government ahead of the meeting. The Minister of Security, Alejandra Monteoliva, supported the decision by FIFA and U.S. authorities to prohibit entry to the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta with flags, jerseys, or any other items bearing political messages, including those related to the Malvinas Islands.
"Yes, of course, the Argentine or English flag, but nothing that carries a message that could provoke any kind of situation. This decision was made to prevent any violent situation," the official explained.
Villarruel's pronouncement coincided with the Executive's rejection of a request from the Association of State Workers (ATE), which had asked to suspend activities in the public administration so that employees could watch the semifinal. The vice president did not address that decision, although her statement highlighted the differences she maintains with the Casa Rosada.
Tensions between Villarruel and Milei have become more pronounced in recent weeks. In July, they already had disagreements over the vice president's meeting with Chinese Ambassador Wang Wei in the Senate, regarding the presidential speech on July 9, and over speculation surrounding the 2027 elections.
The clash between Argentina and England reignites one of the most intense rivalries in World Cup history. This will be the first matchup between the two teams in a World Cup since France 1998, and the sixth in World Cup history.
The symbolic weight of mourning continues to be marked by the Falklands War of 1982 and by the unforgettable match of Mexico 1986, when Diego Maradona led Argentina to victory with the historic "Goal of the Century" and the famous "Hand of God."
Argentina reached the semifinals after defeating Switzerland 3-1 in extra time, with goals from Alexis Mac Allister, Julián Álvarez, and Lautaro Martínez. For Lionel Messi, at 39 years old, the tournament is likely to be his last participation in a World Cup, a point that Villarruel himself emphasized in his message.
The winner of the match between Argentina and England will play in the World Cup final on July 19 against Spain, at the New York/New Jersey stadium.
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