Argentina will wear their famous dark blue away shirt when they face England in Thursday’s World Cup semi-final in Atlanta, reviving a jersey many supporters associate with some of the country’s greatest victories over the Three Lions.
The defending champions will swap their traditional sky blue and white stripes for the dark blue strip that featured in two iconic World Cup meetings with England.
Argentina wore the same colour in the 1986 quarter-final, when Diego Maradona scored both the infamous “Hand of God” goal and the stunning solo effort later named the “Goal of the Century” in a 2-1 victory.
They returned to the dark blue kit at the 1998 World Cup in France. Argentina knocked England out on penalties after a dramatic 2-2 draw in the round of 16.
England manager Thomas Tuchel said he understood why Argentina might want to repeat that history.
“I would have done the same if there was any superstition combined with it. So credit to them. I was not aware of that,” Tuchel told reporters.
The German admitted he also follows personal routines before matches.
“I have my superstitious routines. I will not tell you because another superstition is that if I tell you, it will not work,” he said.
“We have routines that keep you grounded and calm through the day. We have, of course, also our lucky charms, and these things are just normal in high-level sport.”
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni refused to build the shirt change into a bigger story.
“Well, I didn’t ask for the blue one. I don’t know who did, but perhaps it’s tradition,” Scaloni said.
“I really don’t know. I can’t speak to that. And if Thomas had no issue, well, then you can say the same for myself.”
The current away shirt also reflects Argentine culture. It features swirling fileteado-inspired patterns across a black and dark blue base. Fileteado is a UNESCO-recognised decorative art style from Buenos Aires, known for its colourful floral designs and ornate lettering.
Whether the decision comes from tradition or superstition, Argentina will hope the famous blue shirt delivers another memorable result against England and sends Lionel Messi into another World Cup final.
