World Cup security alert: FBI declares England-Argentina clash highest risk
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Security concerns centre on the historic rivalry between both countries and the possibility of disturbances involving supporters.
By Tolulope Oke
The United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has classified Wednesday’s World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina as the tournament’s highest-risk fixture.
The assessment followed a security meeting involving the FBI, FIFA officials and local law-enforcement agencies, according to the Daily Mirror.
Security concerns centre on the historic rivalry between both countries and the possibility of disturbances involving supporters.
England and Argentina fans will enter the Mercedes-Benz Stadium through separate gates as part of measures to prevent confrontations.
However, supporters will not be segregated inside the stadium.
Officials acknowledged that ticket resales have made it difficult to ensure complete separation between rival fans once they enter the venue.
The rivalry between England and Argentina has been shaped by several controversial football encounters and the 1982 Falklands War.
Political tensions resurfaced this week after Argentina’s foreign minister reiterated the country’s claim over the Falkland Islands.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer rejected the claim.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has urged supporters to focus on football rather than the political history between the countries.
“The message to the Argentine people is that this is a soccer match,” Scaloni said.
“We’re going to face a great team with a great coach, but it is just a soccer match, nothing more than that.”
The Atlanta Police Department confirmed that additional officers and security resources had been deployed across the city.
It said personnel would be stationed around the stadium, entertainment districts and other high-traffic locations.
“These proactive measures are designed to protect the public, deter criminal activity and ensure residents and visitors can safely enjoy this historic event,” the department said.
The winner of Wednesday’s semi-final will face either Spain or France in Sunday’s World Cup final.
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