The rivalry waking up after 20 years
England and Argentina meet in Atlanta on Wednesday evening in one of the most eagerly anticipated matches of the tournament. The winners will advance to the final against either France or Spain, while defeat will end hopes of lifting the biggest prize in international football.
Match Analysis
England have reached another major semi-final, continuing a trend that has transformed expectations around the national team over the last eight years.
The route to Atlanta has not always been convincing, however. After an uneven group stage, the Three Lions required patience to overcome DR Congo before producing a memorable victory over Mexico in the Azteca. Their quarter-final against the rowing Scandinavians then developed into another difficult evening, with Bellingham once again proving decisive as England came from behind to progress after extra time.
Tuchel has repeatedly spoken about the need for improvement despite the positive results, and it is easy to understand why. England have looked dangerous going forward, particularly through Kane and Bellingham, but defensive issues have persisted throughout the tournament and were exposed once more in their quarter-final.
Argentina arrive carrying a different type of confidence. The reigning champions have repeatedly found themselves under pressure during the knockout rounds but continue to emerge on the right side of the result.
Cape Verde pushed them all the way, Egypt came within minutes of eliminating them and Switzerland forced them into extra time before Alvarez finally produced the winning moment.
Those experiences only seem to strengthen Scaloni’s side. Argentina have now won 13 consecutive matches and have scored three goals in each of their last four games in the tournament. Since losing to Saudi Arabia in Qatar, they have remained unbeaten at the tournament while scoring at least twice in every match.
Messi continues to lead the way with eight goals and has once again become the focal point of Argentina’s attack, but the supporting cast remains strong. Alvarez, Lautaro Martinez and Enzo Fernandez have all made important contributions during the knockout rounds.
The rivalry itself adds further intrigue. These nations have produced some of the tournament’s most memorable moments over the decades and another chapter now awaits in Atlanta.
Team News
England remain without suspended defender Quansah, while James is unlikely to start after ongoing fitness concerns. Spence could return at right-back, although Konsa remains an option following his appearance in their last match.
Henderson is expected to miss out after surgery on his wrist, while Rice is hoping to recover from illness in time for the semi-final.
Kane is set to move ahead of Wayne Rooney as England’s most-capped outfield player.
Argentina have no major injury concerns ahead of Wednesday’s match. Scaloni must decide whether Alvarez or Lautaro Martinez partners Messi in attack, while Paredes and Thiago Almada offer different midfield solutions depending on the balance he wants from his side.
Odds and Tips
England have the quality to trouble any defence left in the tournament, particularly with Kane and Bellingham in such strong form.
Argentina, though, continue to combine experience, composure and attacking efficiency in the biggest moments, making the holders slight favourites to progress.
Tip: Argentina to win at 3.10.
Don’t forget that we also have Early Payout on this match, which you can read more about here.
Please note that the odds might have changed since the writing and/or publication of this article.
Last updated: 14.07.26
