Lebanese-American media personality Mia Khalifa reacted to Jude Bellingham slapping Valentin Barco on the back of the head after Tuesday’s FIFA World Cup semi-final clash between England and Argentina.

The Three Lions suffered a 2-1 defeat in Atlanta as two late goals from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez completed a stunning comeback for Argentina.

TV footage captured Bellingham standing alone on the pitch at full-time before shaking Argentina reserve goalkeeper Juan Musso. Barco, who was an unused substitute, was then seen going to join in the on-pitch celebrations and appeared to say something within earshot while hugging teammates.

Bellingham subsequently approached the former Strasbourg defender and slapped him on the back of the head. Things escalated quickly as Barco shoved Bellingham in retaliation.

Nicolas Otamendi immediately leapt to the defense of his teammate, pushing Bellingham backwards. A few England players rushed to the scene while Ollie Watkins ushered a fuming Bellingham away.

While reports say Bellingham could face action from FIFA’s disciplinary committee for violent conduct, Khalifa seemingly approved of the England midfielder’s reaction.

Barco had attempted to rile up Thomas Tuchel's men during the match. After Fernandez’s 85th-minute equaliser, the 21-year-old sprinted onto the field and proceeded to celebrate in the faces of the England players.

Speaking after the match, Bellingham played down his animated discussion with Lionel Messi. In the first half, Bellingham and Messi were spotted gesticulating to each other with their arms, sparking several reactions from fans.

Messi provided both assists for Argentina’s goals and was named Man of the Match. England will play France in a third-place playoff on Saturday, while Argentina will take on Spain in the tournament’s showpiece on Sunday.

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