Throughout history, matches played between Argentina and England rank as one of the most memorable moments in FIFA World Cup history, from the "Hand of God" of Diego Armando Maradona to David Beckham's red card in the World Cup in 1998.

Now, as the two nations prepare to clash again for a spot in the FIFA World Cup semi-finals 2026, Alan Shearer, former England captain, has said that refereeing and VAR will again be the most significant talking point.

Three Lions will face off against the defending champion Argentina in their quest at the World Cup. But Shearer believes that emotions will boil over again and has cautioned the England team about controversial refereeing.

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Shearer Recalls Painful 1998 World Cup Exit

Reflecting on England's dramatic Round of 16 defeat to Argentina at the 1998 World Cup, Shearer admitted the memories still hurt nearly three decades later.

"Thinking about Wednesday's game takes me back to Saint-Etienne in 1998, which was one of the most memorable matches I ever played in, and certainly one of the most talked about," Shearer said.

He recalled the unforgettable contest that featured Michael Owen's stunning solo goal, David Beckham's red card, Sol Campbell's disallowed goal and England's heartbreaking penalty shootout defeat.

"It was an unbelievable night with everything that happened and, while I know I should be over it by now, I still don't think the best team won," he added.

Shearer also warned that another emotionally charged battle could see discipline become a decisive factor.

"What happened to us then should be a warning to England now, because these are the kind of games where tempers can boil over and affect the result. I would not be surprised at all if we saw another red card this time too," he concluded.

VAR Concerns Ahead Of Argentina Clash

Beyond the intensity of the rivalry, Shearer also expressed concern over recent refereeing decisions and the use of VAR during the tournament, pointing towards a few controversial calls involving Argentina.

"I am slightly concerned where the refereeing will be at, and how VAR might impact us," he said.

"It feels like there has been a huge shift in the narrative from referees and VAR as the tournament has gone on and there have been some bizarre decisions, including some that have gone Argentina's way," he added.

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Shearer specifically referred to the controversial decision in Argentina's Round of 16 victory over Egypt, where Egypt had a goal ruled out following a VAR review for a foul in the build-up at the opposite end of the pitch.

"The one that ruled out Egypt's goal against them in the last 16, because of a foul at the other end of the pitch, was just astonishing and I just hope for both teams there is no more controversy in this tie," he concluded.

In the battle for a spot in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, England and Argentina will hope that the semi-final will be settled through football and not another VAR-related debacle.