Leandro Parades’ sister Barbara claimed the Falklands Islands as Argentina’s after defeating England, reigniting the Falklands debate since the World Cup. After the semi-final between the two countries, a banner was placed on the pitch reading “Las Malvinas Son Argentinas”, meaning “The Falkland Islands belong to Argentina”.
Lionel Scaloni’s side ultimately lost humiliatingly to Spain in the final, but Barbara made her feelings on World Cup action completely clear. She told reporters: “It meant everything to us to get this far and beat England along the way. We may not have four stars but the Falklands are our own.”
Ahead of the finals, British government officials and the White House released statements. The latter supported Argentina, but Labor leader Ed Davey called for the suspension of players who mentioned political issues in their banners.
Argentina’s Premier League players can technically have their UK work visas canceled if their actions are deemed to be “not in the public interest”, with the Home Office having the legal power to do so. However, legal expert Asma Bashir believes the possibility of that happening is “very low”.
Suggestions that this scenario would actually play out came after considerable outbursts by Niall Gardiner, Margaret Thatcher’s former aide who sent troops to retake the island in 1982. The dispute dates back to the early 19th century, when both countries claimed ownership of the South Atlantic island.
FIFA has not punished Argentina for this action, but an investigation could lead to retrospective action regarding the scenes following the match against Spain. Parade was one of the officials involved in the scuffle between Eric Garcia and Gabi, during which he appeared to throw a punch, but he was not shown a red card.
“But my heart is full of pride for giving it my all and raising the flag at the top once again. I would like to thank everyone who was part of this national team. To this group of players who gave their all to represent this jersey and fought for it until the last moment of each match! It was an honor to be part of the greatest Argentina national team of all time.”
Parades’ mother, Miriam Benitez, also spoke to journalists at Buenos Aires’ Ezeiza airport as they waited for the Argentine national team to return home, and weighed in on the controversy. She said, “We never disrespect anyone. Always respect, I think that’s all that motivates us and takes us where we really want to go. I know what the Argentina national team means to my son.”
The 32-year-old is currently back playing football for Boca Juniors in his home country after spells in France and Italy. Several members of the Argentina national team actually play domestic football in Spain, including Nahuel Molina on Atlético Madrid’s record.
He was also one of the players involved in the scuffle, angry that Spain’s midfielder Rodri had tried to hit him in the midfield. Dani Olmo also received a punch from Argentina coach Roberto Ayala and swung his arm in the Barcelom star’s face.
