Updated
Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jul 16
Argentina Beats England 2-1, Leaving David Beckham in Tears at World Cup Semi-Final
Updated
Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jul 16

Argentina Beats England 2-1, Leaving David Beckham in Tears at World Cup Semi-Final

3 articles · Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jul 16

Summary

  • A 2-1 Argentina win over England in Atlanta left David Beckham visibly distraught in the stands, with Victoria Beckham consoling him as the final whistle ended England's World Cup run.
  • Beckham, 51, had been a constant presence throughout England's march to the semi-finals, and TV broadcasts repeatedly cut to the family during key moments, including England's opening goal.
  • After the defeat, Beckham posted on Instagram: "Heartbreak for us all but memories that inspire and last forever," thanking the team, fans and country for their World Cup campaign.
  • The loss carried extra resonance for Beckham, who was sent off against Argentina at the 1998 World Cup and later found redemption in England's 2002 win over them; this time, Diego Simeone's son Giuliano was part of the Argentina side that reached the final.

Insights

Has the historic England-Argentina football rivalry finally shed its deep-rooted political and military history?
How will the public family rift with their son Brooklyn affect the powerful Beckham brand?
Is Beckham's MLS success a masterclass in business or simply the result of signing Lionel Messi?