Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Jude Bellingham has been accused of striking Valentin Barco on the back of the head after England lost 2-1 to Argentina in their FIFA World Cup semifinal at Atlanta Stadium. The alleged incident occurred during Argentina’s celebrations on July 15 local time, Thursday morning AEST.
Footage appeared to show Jude Bellingham making contact with Valentin Barco before players from both teams gathered around them. BBC Radio suggested Jude Bellingham had been angered when Valentin Barco celebrated near England coach Thomas Tuchel and the England bench.
For the result and late goals, read the Argentina comeback report, while official FIFA World Cup updates provide tournament news and fixtures.
Post-Match Incident Draws Criticism
The confrontation brought a heated finish to a tense semifinal, with Argentina celebrating their place in the final while England players struggled with another painful tournament exit. Social media users quickly criticised Jude Bellingham’s alleged action.
“That Bellingham slap on Barco was disgusting,” one fan wrote.
Another said: “Horrible what Jude Bellingham did in the end. He hits Barco in the back with a sneak attack and totally without provocation. Sore loser doesn’t even begin to cover it.”
Defeat Ends Strong Tournament
Jude Bellingham had been one of England’s leading players during the FIFA World Cup, recording six goals and one assist across six matches. The Real Madrid midfielder scored twice against Mexico and twice against Norway during England’s run to the semifinals.
Jude Bellingham appeared deeply disappointed after Argentina completed a late comeback through goals from Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez. Argentina will face Spain in the final, while England will meet France in the third-place match.
