‘Apoplectic’ England coaches exploit little-known rule to avoid punishment in World Cup clash

England coaches took it in turns to complain to officials against Argentina in a clever way to avoid punishment.

The battle lines between the two nations were drawn before the game kicked off as supporters booed each other’s national anthems.

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And with a number of niggly fouls taking place all across the pitch, the England coaching staff took it in turns to complain to the semi-final officials in Atlanta.

That’s because repeat offence would have resulted in punishment.

 “I saw a player pinch Elliot Anderson’s back, there are lots of niggly challenges,” talkSPORT’s Faye Carruthers said.

“England’s coaching staff are tag-teaming when remonstrating with the referee and fourth official.

“There have been times when they’ve been apoplectic with the decisions.”

Tight semi-final

It was a gruelling start to the semi-final meeting in Atlanta and it took until the 33rd minute for the first shot.

John Stones headed Declan Rice’s cross just wide of the far post.

Argentina looked to respond as Enzo Fernandez fired just wide of the England post from range.

There were a total of 19 fouls in the first half, 12 of which were by Argentina, as the Three Lions and the 2022 champions resumed their rivalry.

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Of those 12 fouls, five were made by Giuliano Simeone, the son of Atletico Madrid boss Diego, as the winger sought to disrupt England’s rhythm.

However, referee Ismail Elfath was reserved with his cards, booking only Elliot Anderson and Lisandro Martinez in the opening 45 minutes.

It was this lack of action taken by the referee that enraged the England coaching staff in the first place.

Centre-back Cristian Romero then landed himself in hot water with Elfath minutes before Anthony Gordon put England in front on 55 minutes.