England, Argentina fans reflect on history, make predictions for Atlanta World Cup semifinal
Supporters share predictions, memories before historic matchup.
ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — Fans of England and Argentina gathered in downtown Atlanta on Tuesday ahead of the two nations’ World Cup semifinal matchup, sharing predictions and personal memories tied to the tournament.
Fans reflect on history
England supporter Martin Hopkinson landed in Atlanta after a 22-hour travel day.
He decided he needed to come and see this match for himself at the last minute, saying it’s his chance to witness history.
“1966 to the final and I was 1 year old so I don’t remember when we won it,” Hopkinson said.
Another England fan, Steve Hill, has been to every England match in the States this World Cup.
He recalled a near-miss with the tournament decades ago.
“My uncle and dad were going to take me to the World Cup in 1994 and we actually didn’t make it in the end,” Hill said.
Predictions from both sides
Despite the rivalry, supporters from both nations said they were confident heading into the match.
“England and Argentine are very good groups,” one Argentina fan said.
England fan Hopkinson called the matchup a marquee moment.
“It’s Argentina in the semis. It just doesn’t get any better than Argentina in the semis. So, it’s coming home,” he said.
On the topic of Lionel Messi, Hopkinson offered a blunt assessment: “Messi’s an old man now, Messi.”
An Argentina fan pushed back, saying in Spanish and English: “Yes but he has experience... he can see... Messi is different.”
Hopkinson offered his early prediction for Wednesday’s game.
“Prediction, 3-1 in normal time, England win.”
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