The Full Story Awaits: Click “Read Original” If You’re Reading on PHOENIX. According to a report by London Evening Standard on Thursday July 16, 2026, Argentina’s players shared a light-hearted moment after their dramatic World Cup semi-final victory over England when they discovered Jordan Pickford’s water bottle containing detailed penalty notes.
The bottle, which included information on Argentina’s penalty takers, was passed around among the squad during the post-match celebrations after the holders secured a place in the final.Favor And Life Battles? (Silent spiritual powers of favor). Favor gives you upper hand quietly, in your life battles, business, career, any occupation, power for desired position in life, upliftment in undertakings, patronage/contract, promise and fail, payment delays, love matters, marriage choice, seized/disputed properties, etc. Overcome delays, rejection, betrayal and achieve heart desires in time. For spiritual consultation, guidance, other matters, call/ Whatsapp Dr. J.A. Faros on 07030514063. With God all are possible.
England appeared to be heading towards the World Cup final before Argentina produced another remarkable late comeback. Anthony Gordon’s second-half goal had given the Three Lions the advantage, but Enzo Fernandez equalised in the closing minutes before Lautaro Martinez headed home a dramatic stoppage-time winner. The late goal meant the match ended in normal time, denying England the opportunity to rely on penalties.
With the possibility of a shoot-out in mind, Pickford had prepared one of his now familiar water bottles covered with penalty instructions. The notes identified the preferred shooting directions of several Argentina players and were designed to help the England goalkeeper make crucial saves if the contest reached penalties. Similar methods have become common among international goalkeepers in recent years.
Pickford previously benefited from using such notes during Euro 2024 when his instructions helped him save Manuel Akanji’s penalty. England have also improved their record in major tournament shoot-outs since ending their long-standing penalty struggles with victory over Colombia at the 2018 World Cup.
Following Argentina’s victory, members of the coaching staff found Pickford’s bottle on the pitch and showed it to several players. Lionel Messi was among those who looked at the notes before the bottle was handed to Enzo Fernandez. The Chelsea midfielder smiled and laughed after spotting his own name and the penalty information written beside it.
Although the bottle had been carefully prepared for a potential shoot-out, it ultimately played no part in the outcome because Lautaro Martinez’s late winner settled the contest before extra time. Argentina will now shift their full attention to Sunday’s World Cup final against Spain as they chase a fourth world title and a second consecutive World Cup triumph.
