Argentina’s World Cup dreams just got a historic boost. France —the side that beat them in the Qatar 2022 final— crashed out of the World Cup 2026 semifinals after a 2-0 loss to Spain. But here’s why the Albiceleste are buzzing: France’s last semifinal defeat came in Mexico 1986, the exact tournament where Argentina lifted their second World Cup. And on Wednesday, they’ll wear the same alternate kit they did back then… just like they will against England.

What happened to France in the semifinals?

Spain booked their spot in the final as tournament’s first finalist by beating France 2-0 in a match that underlined the fatigue of a side chasing a third straight final. The French, champions in Russia 2018, arrived in Qatar 2022 as favorites but fell to Argentina in the decider. Now, their semifinal exit —after 38 years without losing at this stage— revives a key chapter in Albiceleste history.

Why does this coincidence fire up Argentina?

In Mexico 1986, Argentina claimed the title by beating Germany 3-2 in the final. That tournament is remembered for Maradona’s hand-of-God goal against England, but also for a detail that resonates today: the Albiceleste wore their alternate kit in both the semifinal against Belgium and the final against Germany. This Wednesday, the away shirt will be front and center again. And while the opponent is England, not England 1986, the historical echo adds fuel to the fire.

Argentina arrive on a three-game winning streak, capped by their last result: Angola 0-2 Argentina (2025-11-14). Confidence is sky-high, and the coaching staff are betting on repeating the 40-year-old blueprint when Carlos Bilardo’s side proved individual brilliance —with Maradona as the star— could overcome any hurdle.

When and where does Argentina vs. England kick off?

The Albiceleste’s semifinal clash with England for a place in the World Cup 2026 final kicks off this Wednesday 15 July at 16:00 local time at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. It’s a classic clash of styles: England’s physicality against Argentina’s creativity, with the latter already having stamped their class by lifting the trophy in Qatar 2022.

Lionel Scaloni faces a kit call, but beyond the color, the prize is a final berth. And if history repeats itself, the Albiceleste could be writing another golden page.