the match will be played tomorrow (Image: Getty)
The upcoming World Cup semi-final match between England and Argentina has been classified as the “highest risk” match of the tournament so far, as security has been beefed up ahead of Wednesday’s match, the FBI said. The FBI, FIFA and police held talks Monday to discuss preparations for the match in Atlanta amid historic tensions between the two countries and concerns about the risk of trouble between supporters.
It is expected that separate entry gates will be used to separate rival groups when England and Argentina fans arrive at the stadium. However, fans from both countries may be seated side by side, as supporters will not be completely isolated once inside the ground.
Argentina fans take part in World Cup celebrations (Image: Getty)
Officials are understood to have worked hard to separate the two fan bases, but accept there are limits to what they can do once fans enter the stadium and take their seats.
The match is made even more sensitive by historical tensions between Britain and Argentina after the 1982 Falklands War and by Argentina’s claims to British overseas territory.
A video of England and Argentina supporters clashing in Miami after the quarter-finals has also been circulating online in recent days.
In addition, Argentine soccer players were filmed singing about the region after their finals victory over Egypt and Switzerland.
Ahead of the semifinals, the Atlanta Police Department said it has stepped up public safety operations across the city, deploying additional officers and personnel around the stadium, entertainment district and other downtown areas.
“As Atlanta prepares to host the FIFA World Cup semifinals and welcomes an increase in the number of residents and visitors, the Atlanta Police Department is strengthening public safety and security efforts across the city,” the force said in a statement.
“Additional personnel and resources have already been deployed and will continue to be strategically placed in and around event venues, entertainment districts, and other high-traffic areas to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
“These proactive measures are designed to protect the public, deter criminal activity, and ensure residents and visitors can safely enjoy this historic event.”
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England fans celebrate during the World Cup (Image: Getty)
Despite ramping up security operations, the UK has no plans to send additional police officers to the US.
FIFA said “comprehensive and robust safety measures” will be in place for all remaining World Cup matches.
The spokesperson added: “There have been no major incidents. FIFA hopes that this spirit of unity and respect will continue.”
While the actions of England fans on the road have been praised, police have expressed concern over incidents in their home country.
More than 500 incidents were reported and more than 100 arrests were made across the country after England’s 2-1 quarter-final victory over Norway, according to the British Football Police Authority.
