Mac Allister's mum refuses anti-England chants at World Cup because of her UK-born granddaughter

Alexis Mac Allister’s mother has revealed she will not participate in anti-England chants during Argentina’s World Cup semi-final against the Three Lions on Wednesday, because her granddaughter was born in the United Kingdom.

Silvina Riela told Buenos Aires’ Radio Mitre that her attitude toward England has shifted dramatically since her son joined Brighton and later Liverpool. “I had a rather negative impression of England, at least regarding living there, due to the cold and the lack of sunshine,” she said. “But now that I’ve experienced it, everything has changed, even the way I see the people. I expected to encounter cold, distant people, but they are actually very polite and respectful. We were welcomed by a country that has treated us in the best possible way.”

The specific reason she stays silent when Argentina supporters sing anti-England songs, however, is personal. “My granddaughter was born in England,” Riela explained. “So, when everyone sings, ‘Whoever doesn’t jump is English,’ I stay seated with her. I can’t join in on that; I don’t participate in that part.”

Her son has echoed that measured tone ahead of the semi-final in Atlanta. Mac Allister, 27, acknowledged the weight of the fixture while calling for perspective on the political history that colours it. “We understand the context behind it, all the rivalry stemming from past events and history,” the midfielder said. “Obviously, we also realise that this isn’t the fault of their people or ours, but rather those in positions of power, so we shouldn’t conflate the two.”

Mac Allister added that his six years in England have left him with genuine affection for the country. “I have a lot of respect for them; they’ve always treated me incredibly well. From a footballing perspective, there’s no doubt they want to beat us at all costs, and it’s going to be a very tough match.”

The Liverpool midfielder has been central to Argentina’s run to the last four, starting every game but one. He also scored in the quarter-final victory over Switzerland to help send the defending champions through.

Argentina players were filmed singing about the Falkland Islands in the build-up to the match, and some supporters have circulated footage referencing the 1982 conflict on social media, underlining the charged atmosphere surrounding the tie. Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni, however, has sought to frame it simply. As Riela noted, quoting her national team’s coach: “It’s just a football match.”