The upcoming World Cup semi‑final between Argentina and England has sparked a wave of ritualistic behaviour among the nation’s supporters, who are turning to age‑old superstitions in search of good fortune.
Among the most visible practices is the habit of freezing the name of England’s star striker Harry Kane in a freezer, a symbolic act that many believe can immobilise the rival’s threat. At the same time, fans insist on wearing the same unwashed jerseys and occupying the same seats throughout the tournament, convinced that any change could break the charm.
The Roots of Cabala
These customs are part of a broader tradition known as ‘cabalas’, a term that encapsulates the myriad lucky charms and routines Argentine fans have cultivated for decades. Former World Cup‑winning coach Carlos Bilardo earned fame for his elaborate pre‑match rituals, and today’s coach Lionel Scaloni has openly admitted to stepping onto the pitch with his right foot and making the sign of the cross before games.
Social media has amplified the phenomenon, with AI‑generated images depicting rival players encased in ice circulating widely. Student Juan Pablo Calvo, for instance, plans to freeze the name of England’s midfielder Jude Bellingham, whom he regards as a phenomenal talent, while donning a shirt that mirrors the one Diego Maradona wore during the 1986 tournament.
For many, the repetition of a single routine is the most powerful ‘cabala’. Ines Mutri watches each match with eight companions who wear identical hats and sit in the same spots every time, believing that consistency alone can influence the outcome.
The match also revives one of soccer’s most storied rivalries, recalling Maradona’s infamous ‘Hand of God’ goal from 1986 and the subsequent reverence for his legacy. The current generation of fans draws on that history, blending nostalgia with modern superstition as they hope to add a new chapter to Argentina’s World Cup narrative.