Argentina vs England: World Cup head-to-head record
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England leads the World Cup head-to-head record against Argentina 3-1-1 across five meetings from 1962 to 2002. The Three Lions have won three matches, Argentina one, with one draw that Argentina won on penalties in 1998.
This rivalry spans 40 years of World Cup history and includes some of football's most memorable moments, from England's 1966 quarter-final victory on home soil to Diego Maradona's infamous 'Hand of God' goal that sent Argentina through in 1986.
Complete World Cup Meeting History
The Argentina-England World Cup rivalry began in 1962 and has produced five compelling encounters across four decades. England dominated the early meetings, winning 3-1 in 1962 and securing a crucial 1-0 quarter-final victory during their 1966 home triumph. However, Argentina's most famous moment came twenty years later when Diego Maradona's controversial 'Hand of God' goal and stunning solo effort eliminated England 2-1 in Mexico's quarter-finals.
The rivalry's most dramatic chapter unfolded in 1998 when a thrilling 2-2 draw in Saint-Étienne went to penalties, with Argentina prevailing 4-3 in a shootout that featured David Beckham's red card. England gained revenge four years later with a 1-0 group stage victory in 2002, their most recent World Cup meeting. Fans can track live scores and build tournament brackets for future encounters at Bola 2026.
Frequently asked questions
When did Argentina and England first meet at a World Cup?
Argentina and England first met at the 1962 World Cup in Chile, where England won 3-1 in a group stage match.
Which team has won more World Cup matches between Argentina and England?
England leads the World Cup head-to-head 3-1-1, having won three matches compared to Argentina's one victory and one penalty shootout win.
What was the most famous Argentina vs England World Cup match?
The 1986 quarter-final is the most famous, featuring Diego Maradona's 'Hand of God' goal and his brilliant solo effort in Argentina's 2-1 victory.