A joint security operation is being put in place in Atlanta ahead of England’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina because officials believe the fixture carries an unusually high risk of disorder. The match is seen as sensitive because of the long-running football rivalry between the two countries, recent crowd trouble elsewhere in the tournament, and fears that large numbers of supporters mixing in and around the stadium could lead to clashes. The significance goes beyond the sport itself because the game is one of the tournament’s biggest occasions, with huge crowds, heavy media attention and a place in the final at stake.

The operation reportedly involves FIFA, local police and US federal authorities, with the match described in some reports as the highest-risk fixture of the tournament. Extra measures are expected to include a larger police presence, separate entry arrangements and tighter monitoring of shared public areas in and around the Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Reports suggest around 75,000 fans could be inside the ground, with Argentina expected to have especially strong support, while the winner will go on to face either Spain or France in the final.