Argentina and England Fans Boo Anthems Before World Cup Semi-Final

Argentina and England fans booed each other's national anthems before their World Cup semi-final in Atlanta. The jeers began as Argentina supporters chanted "whoever doesn't jump is English" while "God Save the King" played. England fans responded by jeering Argentina's anthem.

Background on the Rivalry Argentina invaded the British Overseas Territory in 1982. British forces regained control after a 74-day conflict that killed 907 people: 649 Argentine military personnel, 255 British personnel, and three Falkland Islanders.

Argentina maintains that the South Atlantic archipelago, located 300 miles from its east coast, should be under its sovereignty. The territorial dispute remains part of national culture, including football. A former England striker said on BBC commentary that the anthems exchange reflected the rivalry between the teams.

Argentina's vice-president had referred to England as "invaders" and "usurping pirates" before the match. Some observers state that expressions about the Falklands do not represent hatred toward Britain.