David Beckham’s big 1998 moment was the red card in the World Cup match against Argentina. England were knocked out on penalties, and Beckham became the target of intense backlash in the UK afterward.

What happened

In the round of 16 at the 1998 World Cup, Beckham was sent off after kicking out at Diego Simeone during England’s match with Argentina. England then lost the game in a penalty shootout.

Aftermath

The reaction was brutal, with Beckham facing heavy public abuse, including hostility from fans and media. Reports later said the fallout affected him deeply, and Victoria Beckham described him as being “clinically depressed” during that period.

Why it still matters

That incident became one of the defining turning points of Beckham’s career because it shifted him from national hero to national villain almost overnight. He later said the experience stayed with him for years.

If you want, I can also give you a very short version or a timeline of Beckham’s 1998 World Cup story.