Argentina aims to break 36‑year World Cup curse against England

Since the round of 16 at the 1990 World Cup, Argentina has never defeated a former champion in regular time or extra time. The last victory over a past title‑holder came in 1990 when Claudio Caniggia scored against Brazil. Every subsequent clash with former champions – Germany (2006, 2010, 2014), England (1998, 2002), France (2018) and others – has ended in defeat or required a penalty shoot‑out.

The pattern continued at Qatar 2022, where Argentina’s triumph over France was decided on penalties. Heading into the upcoming World Cup match against England, Argentine fans hope to finally end the “36‑year curse” by winning within 120 minutes, rather than relying on a shoot‑out.

Argentina’s recent knockout runs in the 2026 tournament have seen victories over non‑champion sides such as Cape Verde, Egypt and Switzerland, but England remains the first reigning champion they could face in the knockout stage since 1990.