Although the match between Argentina and England never had to be decided from the penalty spot, it was revealed that the English national team already had a plan prepared for that scenario.
Everything came to light thanks to goalkeeper Jordan Pickford’s water bottle. It had a sticker with information about potential Argentine penalty takers, including the side they usually shot toward and other notes used as assistance in a possible penalty shootout.
Argentina’s masseur, Marcelo “Daddy” D’Andrea, found the bottle on the pitch and showed it to different players while everyone was celebrating.
Messi, Nicolás González and Marcos Senesi were the first to inspect the item with the notes written by the English coaching staff.
Shortly afterward, D’Andrea approached Enzo Fernández, who smiled when he realized that he was also on the list.
The moment was captured by TyC Sports, and the footage was widely discussed after the match ended.
This type of hidden notes has become increasingly common in elite football. Coaching staffs analyze hundreds of opponents’ attempts and prepare summaries so goalkeepers can quickly consult them during a shootout.
However, the match ended before England could use that information, as Argentina secured the victory during regular time.
Images of the bottle quickly began circulating on social media, and many fans were surprised by the level of preparation behind a possible penalty shootout.
Watch the clip here: