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England's 2026 World Cup dream ended in heartbreak on Wednesday night, but the final whistle was followed by disorder away from the pitch as police were forced to intervene in incidents involving England and Argentina supporters.
Videos shared on social media showed clashes in both Atlanta and central London after Argentina's 2-1 victory booked their place in the 2026 World Cup final.
England vs Argentina chaos spilt out onto the streets after full-time
Tensions that had surrounded the fixture before kick-off spilt over after the match, with footage showing confrontations outside Atlanta Stadium as supporters from both nations came together following the final whistle.
Armed police moved in to break up disturbances outside the ground, with several people arrested.
Videos also appeared to show Argentina supporters clashing with officers in the vicinity of the stadium, while a number of England fans wearing Three Lions shirts were seen being placed in handcuffs.
Elsewhere, separate footage circulating online showed isolated altercations involving supporters across England and in New York after Argentina's comeback victory.
In central London, Metropolitan Police officers intervened after a lone Argentina supporter wearing a Lionel Messi shirt was surrounded by a large crowd of England fans near Piccadilly Circus.
Officers formed a protective cordon around the supporter before escorting them safely into a police vehicle, allowing the van to leave the area without any further reported incident. There is no suggestion of wrongdoing by the supporter or those pictured.
The heightened emotions came after an already politically charged build-up to the match, with references to the Falkland Islands made before and after the game adding further tension to one of football's fiercest international rivalries.
FGG says: This always felt likely, whatever the result
England versus Argentina has always been one of football's most emotionally charged fixtures, and with a place in the World Cup final at stake, it was always likely to create a passionate atmosphere both inside and outside the stadium.
While the overwhelming majority of supporters from both nations enjoyed the occasion responsibly, police were clearly prepared for the possibility of isolated incidents and responded quickly where tensions escalated.
Ultimately, scenes like these are disappointing regardless of which supporters are involved. Rivalries are part of what makes international football special, but they should remain inside the stadium.
Thankfully, the reported incidents appear to have been contained quickly, allowing the focus to remain on the football rather than events away from the pitch.