Why Alexis Mac Allister's Mom Refuses to Join Argentina's Anti-England Chants Ahead of World Cup Semifinal Silvina Riela, the mother of Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister, has become a focal point of discussion ahead of Argentina’s World Cup semifinal against England. Her decision to avoid participating in one of Argentina’s most iconic anti-English chants has sparked debate, reflecting the deep historical tensions between the nations and her personal experiences living in England. The rivalry between Argentina and England is rooted in the Falklands War, known in Argentina as the Malvinas War, and the infamous “Hand of God” goal by Diego Maradona in the 1986 World Cup. These events have shaped the national narrative, with Argentina fans often expressing their anger through chants like “Y ya lo ve, y ya lo ve” followed by “El que no salta, es un ingles” (“Whoever doesn’t jump is an Englishman”). During the tournament, Argentina players have also sung “For the Malvinas, For Diego, For Leo’s last one,” a reference to Lionel Messi’s final goal in the quarterfinals against Switzerland. Riela, however, has chosen not to join these chants. Speaking to Buenos Aires’ Radio Mitre, she explained that her perspective on England has shifted dramatically since her son moved to Brighton in 2020. “I had a rather negative impression of England, at least regarding living there, due to the cold and the lack of sunshine,” she said. “In my ignorance, I used to say, ‘I hope we never end up in England.’ But now that I’ve experienced it, everything has changed, even the way I see the people.” She described the British as “very polite and respectful” and noted that they had welcomed her family warmly. Riela acknowledged the political weight of the rivalry but emphasized her personal connection to England.#england #argentina #alexis_mac_allister #silvina_riela #falklands_war
