Atlanta police are expanding security operations ahead of Wednesday's FIFA World Cup semifinal between England and Argentina.

The match is one that authorities have identified as the tournament's highest-risk because of the historic rivalry between the two teams and the large numbers of supporters expected to descend on the city.

The Atlanta Police Department said it has strengthened its citywide security posture as tens of thousands of residents and visitors prepare for the match at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

"As Atlanta prepares to host an upcoming FIFA World Cup semifinal match and welcomes increased numbers of residents and visitors, the Atlanta Police Department has enhanced its citywide public safety and security posture," the department said in a statement to The Athletic.

"Additional personnel and resources are already deployed and will continue to be strategically assigned in and around the event venues, entertainment districts, and other high-traffic areas to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

"These proactive measures are designed to protect the public, deter criminal activity, and ensure residents and visitors can safely enjoy this historic event."

Authorities have not disclosed the precise number of officers assigned to the operation, but police said additional personnel will remain deployed before, during, and after the match in areas expected to draw the largest crowds.

The semifinal renews one of international soccer's most emotionally charged rivalries.

England and Argentina have met repeatedly in World Cup history, with several matches becoming defining moments in the sport.

The rivalry extends beyond the field, having been intensified by the 1982 Falklands War and decades of fiercely contested international matches.

Security concerns increased after videos circulated on social media over the weekend showing small groups of England and Argentina supporters involved in confrontations in Miami following England's quarterfinal victory over Norway.

While the incidents were limited, officials have cited them as one factor behind the heightened security preparations.

British authorities said they will not send additional police officers to the United States for the semifinal. Instead, a three-member United Kingdom Football Policing Unit delegation already in the country will continue working alongside U.S. law enforcement agencies.

FIFA said security plans remain in place for the tournament's final matches.

"Comprehensive and robust security arrangements will be in place for all remaining matches," FIFA said.

"There have been no major incidents, and this spirit of unity and respect is something FIFA expects to continue."

Officials also have planned separate stadium entrances for each federation's official ticket allocation, although most seating inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium will not be segregated under FIFA's ticketing policy.

Both teams appealed for calm ahead of the highly anticipated semifinal.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni urged supporters to keep the occasion in perspective.

"The message to the Argentinian people is that this is a soccer match," he said. "We're going to face a great team with a great coach, but it is just a soccer match, nothing more than that."

The winner will advance to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final against either Spain or France, setting up a championship match between one of international soccer's traditional powers and the survivor of another blockbuster semifinal.