"As Atlanta prepares to host an upcoming Fifa World Cup semi-final match and welcomes increased numbers of residents and visitors, the Atlanta Police Department has enhanced its citywide public safety and security posture," Atlanta Police said in a statement ahead of Wednesday's game (Thursday AEST).
"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."
According to the Argentinian newspaper La Nacion, authorities have classified the match at the highest risk level for potential trouble. The hotels of both teams are to be guarded by larger police deployments.
The 1982 Falklands war between Britain and Argentina and the South Americans' continued claim to sovereignty over the islands is seen as a flashpoint for fans.
Plus, the controversial "Hand of God" goal by Diego Maradona against England in the 1986 World Cup quarter-finals still rankles with English supporters.
Meanwhile, Argentina will wear their dark blue alternative shirts in the semi-final, prompting fans of the Three Lions to fear the worst.
The three-time champions normally wear white and light blue stripes.
But that has been deemed too close to a clash with the white strip of England, who have the right to choose as the designated home team.
Still, reigning champions Argentina are more than happy to wear blue, given its World Cup history against their rivals.
"Bad omen for England?" wrote UK tabloid newspaper the Daily Mail in its online headline on Tuesday, while social media was awash with England fans wishing they could wear their red change kit in Atlanta.
In the 1986 quarter-final, Argentina beat England 2-1 wearing dark blue, in the game made famous by Maradona's "Hand of God" goal. His second in that match was one of the greatest goals of all-time.
