Argentina FA declares July 15 'National Football Teams Day' after 2-1 World Cup semi win over England

The Argentine Football Association announced July 15 will be observed as "National Football Teams Day" to mark Argentina’s 2-1 victory over England in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal on July 15. The winning goals in that match came from Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez.

England took the lead through Anthony Gordon and Argentina remained behind until the 85th minute, a period during which they were effectively set to play France for third place. Fernández levelled with a long-range strike, and in the second minute of injury time Martínez scored with a header to secure the win without extra time. Lionel Messi provided the assists for both Argentine goals.

Argentina’s progress to the semifinal had been characterised by close knockout matches that stretched into extra time. They required a strenuous effort against Cape Verde to arrange a last-16 meeting with Egypt, where they again came from behind to advance. In the quarter-final versus Switzerland, Argentina also prevailed after extra time.

The comeback against England sent Argentina into a consecutive final of the World Cup tournament. The semi-final win was cited by the Argentine FA as the reason for establishing the commemorative day on July 15.

Argentina were unable to retain the World Cup, losing the final 1-0 to Spain; Ferran Torres scored in extra time to give La Roja their second World Cup trophy.