Footage has emerged showing Jude Bellingham slapping Argentina's Valentin Barco in the immediate aftermath of England's 2-1 World Cup semi-final defeat, with reports identifying what triggered the England midfielder's reaction. The incident capped a fraught night for England, whose exit sparked wider fallout including criticism of manager Thomas Tuchel's tactics and separate confrontations, such as Bellingham's frustration with goalkeeper Jordan Pickford over Argentina's equaliser.

According to the report, Bellingham's anger was sparked by Barco's provocative celebration following Enzo Fernandez's goal, which he reacted to by slapping the Argentina full-back. The clash adds to a bitter build-up between the two nations during the tournament in Argentina, which also saw England's anthem drowned out by jeers, players displaying a banner referencing the Falkland Islands, and accusations of on-pitch misconduct from England supporters over a challenge that some felt warranted a red card.