Online Desk 

The Argentine government has sought assistance from the United States to prevent nearly 13,000 Argentine supporters from entering World Cup stadiums during the ongoing tournament. Authorities said the list includes individuals accused of failing to pay child support as well as those linked to various criminal offences.

The initiative is being implemented under Argentina's "Safe Stands" programme, which aims to hold individuals accountable for neglecting parental responsibilities while spending substantial amounts of money on entertainment activities. The government has taken a particularly firm stance against those with outstanding child support obligations.

According to a report by Spanish newspaper AS, a significant number of those on the list are accused of failing to provide regular financial support for their children. The names of individuals allegedly involved in other criminal activities have also been included. Argentine authorities have requested cooperation from US law enforcement agencies and relevant officials to ensure these individuals are denied access to World Cup venues.

Buenos Aires Mayor Jorge Macri said that anyone who fails to meet the basic needs of their children should not have the moral right to enjoy the privileges of attending football matches.

Official data show that since its expansion in 2023, the Safe Stands programme has screened information from more than four million spectators across 1,328 football matches in Argentina. During this process, authorities identified 1,166 individuals with outstanding arrest warrants and took the necessary administrative measures against them.

Meanwhile, on the field, reigning world champions Argentina remain among the favourites to lift the trophy once again. Lionel Scaloni's side will begin their Group J campaign against Algeria on June 17, with the match scheduled to kick off at 7:00 a.m. Bangladesh time. Argentina's other group-stage opponents are Austria and Jordan.