The United States Federal Bureau of Investigation has classified Wednesday’s FIFA World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina as the tournament’s highest-risk fixture.
According to the Daily Mirror, the assessment followed a security meeting on Monday involving the FBI, FIFA officials, and local law enforcement.
During the meeting, the media platform reported on Tuesday that the FBI labelled the match the “highest-risk” one over concerns of the long-standing rivalry between the two nations and the potential for crowd disturbances.
As part of the security arrangements, England and Argentina supporters will enter the Mercedes-Benz Stadium through separate gates, although there will be no segregation inside the venue.
Officials have made efforts to keep rival fans apart, but acknowledged that ticket resale platforms have made it difficult to guarantee separation once supporters are inside the stadium.
The rivalry between England and Argentina extends beyond football, shaped in part by the 1982 Falklands War, in which 907 people lost their lives after Argentina invaded the islands and Britain reasserted control.
Tensions were also heightened this week after Argentina’s foreign minister reiterated the country’s claim over the Falkland Islands, a position rejected by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni, however, sought to downplay the political undertones ahead of the match.
“The message to the Argentine people is that this is a soccer match. We’re going to face a great team with a great coach, but it is just a soccer match, nothing more than that,” Scaloni said.
The Atlanta Police Department also confirmed it had strengthened security across the city ahead of the semi-final.
“As Atlanta prepares to host an upcoming FIFA 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,” the department said in a statement.
“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.”
The match, scheduled for Wednesday night, will determine the second finalist of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the winner set to face either Spain or France in Sunday’s final.
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