For most England fans there is zero question over who they are supporting in the World Cup semi-final.
For Kelci Bowers, however, it’s not quite as straightforward as supporting her country – herself being a Young Lioness – against their bitter rivals Argentina in Wednesday’s World Cup clash.
4
That’s because 22-year-old Bowers, who played for the Young Lionesses up to U19 level, will be cheering on her partner, Argentina defender Marcos Senesi.
A late replacement for the injured Leonardo Balerdi, Senesi – who has joined Tottenham on a free transfer – is playing at his first World Cup and featured in the world champions’ 3-1 group-stage win over Jordan.
‘An unusual situation’
The 29-year-old will no doubt be itching to make a second World Cup appearance in Wednesday’s mouthwatering showdown in Atlanta, where his other half will find herself with split loyalties.
Bowers told The Times: “It’s a very unusual situation for me.
“I grew up wearing an England shirt and had the privilege of representing England, so that connection will always be incredibly strong.
“England making it to the semi-final is a crazy accomplishment and I’m super proud of my country.”
Bowers, who met Senesi while the pair were both at Bournemouth, will not only be anxious for England to do well on Wednesday night.
“When your partner is playing in one of the biggest games of his career, naturally you want him to do well too,” she continued.
“I’ll be supporting Marcos personally while still feeling incredibly proud whenever I see England on a stage like this.
“It’s probably the only game where I’ll be feeling nervous for both sides.”
4
4
“It’s one of the most iconic rivalries in international football.
“There’s so much history behind the fixture, which naturally creates an extra level of emotion and intensity.”
‘The best intentions for both teams’
But Bowers is determined to have a good time regardless of what happens on the pitch.
“I’m going to the game. I’m going to enjoy the game,” she insisted.
“I’m going to respect both teams. I’m going to be cheering on for my partner and I’m going to be wishing England the best game.
“I have the best intentions for both teams. Whatever the outcome is, we’ll just see.”
4
Bowers, meanwhile, will be looking for a club of her own.
At the end of the 2025/26 season, Bournemouth confirmed she would be leaving following the expiry of her contract.
Leaving after 70 games and 11 goals, the club said: “All at AFC Bournemouth would like to thank Kelci for her services, and she leaves with everyone’s best wishes for her future both on and off the pitch.”
For now, though, she is enjoying the World Cup and showing her social media followers, which number hundreds of thousands, her life as an Argentina supporter.
She has regularly posted pictures of her at games and with Senesi, so she will be in Atlanta on Wednesday at the impressive Mercedes Benz Stadium where Thomas Tuchel will be hoping for optimal conditions with its unique roof feature.
England vs Argentina is live on eSPORTY at 8pm (BST) on 15 July.
