From Regev to Smotrich: Ministers Congratulated Argentina and Jabbed at England

16.7.2026 / 9:17

After the dramatic 2-1 in the World Cup semi-final, government officials rushed to congratulate the Albiceleste and President Javier Milei, while Smotrich and Ben Gvir also incorporated political messages. About 10,000 fans celebrated in Tel Aviv

Argentina national team fans argued among themselves/From social media

Argentina's dramatic victory over England in the World Cup semi-final did not leave only soccer fans indifferent. Shortly after the 2-1 and the Albiceleste's qualification for the final, Israeli ministers and Knesset members rushed to congratulate the team and Argentine President Javier Milei, considered a friend of Israel.

At the same time, about 10,000 fans who arrived for a mass screening at Charles Clore Park in Tel Aviv celebrated wildly the winning goal and the advance to the final, in one of the largest soccer parties seen in Israel during the tournament.

Transportation Minister Miri Regev wrote: "Congratulations to the Argentine people and my friend President Javier Milei. Keeping my fingers crossed for you in the final!"

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich chose to include a political jab as well: "I may not be able to enter Britain because I am eliminating the idea of a Palestinian state, but two goals went in nicely... Javier, congratulations buddy!"

National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir posted after the match: "We love the lovers of Israel. Come on Argentina."

Even before the opening whistle, Ben Gvir had already made clear who he was rooting for, writing: "Do I really need to explain why I am praying with all my heart that the Argentine national team will win tonight and reach the final?"

As mentioned, Argentina completed a dramatic comeback against England thanks to goals from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez, aided by two assists from the unstoppable Lionel Messi that earned them a ticket to the final against Spain.

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Argentina national team
World Cup