India, July 16 -- Ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final between Argentina and England, coaches Lionel Scaloni and Thomas Tuchel, downplayed the backdrop to the contest, insisting there would be no heated exchanges on the pitch. The reality, however, was very different when the players took the field on Wednesday.

Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, came from behind to beat England 2-1 and book a place in the final against Spain, but the match will also be remembered for the bad blood that spilled over throughout the contest. By the final whistle, 26 fouls had been committed, making it one of the most physical matches of the tournament. Eight of those fouls came in the opening 10 minutes alone, while the referee showed four yellow cards...