Argentina’s Alexis Mac Allister’s mother distances herself from anti-England chants ahead of World Cup semi-final
Alexis Mac Allister’s mother has refused to join anti-England chants ahead of Argentina’s World Cup semi-final, insisting her family’s experiences of living in Britain have completely changed her view of the country, reports BritPanorama.
Silvina Riela has found herself at the centre of debate in Argentina after revealing she stays seated when supporters break into one of the tournament’s most popular terrace songs targeting England.
Thousands of Argentina fans have been filmed chanting “He who doesn’t jump is an Englishman” as excitement builds before Wednesday night’s showdown in Atlanta. However, Riela, who moved to England in 2020 after Mac Allister signed for Brighton, says she cannot bring herself to take part.
Speaking about her experiences, she admitted she had once held a very different perception of England before relocating with her family. “What happened to me is that I had a pretty negative image of England in terms of living there, because of the cold and the lack of sun,” she said. “I used to say, in my ignorance, that we should never have to go to England. But now that I’ve been there, everything has changed. Even the way I see people.”
“I thought I was going to find cold people, but they are very polite and respectful,” she continued. “We have been welcomed by a country that has treated us in the best way.”
Riela also explained why she chooses not to join chants directed at England, pointing to both her family’s personal circumstances and comments previously made by Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni, who has sought to downplay political narratives surrounding the fixture. “The issue in England is somewhat related to our history regarding the Falklands/Malvinas,” she said.
She further elaborated, stating, “What Scaloni said is just a football match. My granddaughter was born in England. So when everyone sings, anyone who doesn’t jump is considered English, and I stay seated with her. I can’t say the same. In that sense, I don’t go along with it.”
Her remarks prompted a mixed reaction on social media, with some Argentina supporters criticising her decision not to participate in the chants. One user wrote: “Ridiculous old woman.” Another posted: “Shame on you.” A third added: “Come on Silvina, stop pretending to be all English.”
Mac Allister, who has spent the past six years playing club football in England with Brighton and Liverpool, has also spoken warmly about his experiences despite preparing to face the Three Lions. The midfielder said he has nothing but respect for the country that has become his second home. “I have a lot of respect for them because I’ve been there for six years now and they’ve always treated me incredibly well,” he said.
“From a footballing perspective, I have no doubt they want to beat us at all costs, and it’s going to be a very tough match, so now we have to prepare as best we can. And, with respect, it’s going to be a great battle on the pitch.” Who ends up coming out on top tomorrow night remains to be seen.
