Why Is Argentina Wearing Its Away Kit Against England? Is It Because of Diego Maradona's Lucky Charm?

The reigning World Cup champions are gearing up to face one of their fiercest and most challenging rivals in international football.

Argentina has drawn plenty of attention ahead of its FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal against England after confirming it will wear its blue away kit instead of the iconic sky blue and white stripes. So why will La Albiceleste take the field in a different uniform at Atlanta Stadium?

DID SCALONI ASK FOR THE CHANGE?

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni addressed the speculation during Tuesday's pre-match press conference, shutting down rumors that the decision came from his coaching staff.

"No, I didn't ask to play in the blue kit."

That was Scaloni's blunt response from the media center at the Atlanta Falcons' NFL stadium.

WHY IS THE BLUE KIT SO SIGNIFICANT?

Argentina's all-blue away jersey is considered a lucky charm by many fans because it was worn in two of the nation's most memorable victories over England at the World Cup.

The first came in the quarterfinals of the 1986 FIFA World Cup in Mexico, while the second was in the Round of 16 at France 1998, when Argentina advanced in a penalty shootout.

Those remain Argentina's only two wins over England in five World Cup meetings, giving the blue shirt a special place in the country's football folklore.

THE RUMORS

According to Argentine media, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) requested permission for the team to wear the blue kit, given its historical success against England.

That speculation prompted local reporters to ask Scaloni whether the decision had originated from his coaching staff, something the World Cup-winning manager firmly denied.

FIFA REGULATIONS ALSO SUPPORT THE DECISION

Under Article 30 of FIFA's Regulations for the 2026 World Cup, FIFA proposes the kit colors for each match, with both teams' primary uniforms taking precedence whenever possible.

However, if there is a risk of a color clash between the two teams—or with the match officials—FIFA must ensure sufficient visual contrast or determine the uniforms by draw.

England is designated as the home team for this semifinal and therefore has priority to wear its traditional white kit. As a result, Argentina is required to switch to its blue away strip under FIFA's kit protocol.