Why did Argentina ditch their iconic stripes for a ‘lucky’ deep blue kit before facing England?

Washington, DC —Lionel Messi delivered another iconic World Cup moment as Argentina came from behind to beat England 2-1 in the semifinals and reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, with the veteran forward at the heart of a dramatic semi-final comeback.

Argentina arrived in Atlanta wearing a kit rarely seen on football’s biggest nights.

Instead of their usual sky blue and white stripes, the defending champions stepped out in navy blue, a shirt many fans believe carries a touch of fortune whenever they face England.

The choice was approved by FIFA after the Argentine Football Association requested the darker strip to avoid a clash with England’s traditional all-white kit.

The navy blue jersey carries deep memories for Argentine supporters. It was worn during Argentina’s famous 1986 World Cup quarter-final victory over England, when Diego Maradona scored the legendary “Hand of God” and “Goal of the Century” goals.

The kit was also used in Argentina’s penalty shootout win over England at the 1998 World Cup.

Against England in Atlanta, however, it was Messi who created the latest chapter.

After Anthony Gordon gave England the lead, the 39-year-old produced two decisive moments. He delivered the pass for Enzo Fernandez to smash in an 85th-minute equaliser before providing the cross for Lautaro Martinez to head home the winner.

Messi called the victory “quite a special one”, particularly because of the history between the two nations.