England vs Argentina. Wednesday, July 15, 3 PM ET. Atlanta. This is the semi-final that everyone wanted — a clash between two nations with deep, painful history dating back to 1986 and Diego Maradona's Hand of God, a rivalry that has shaped both countries' relationship with football for 40 years. Now, 20 years after their last competitive meeting, they collide with a place in the World Cup Final on the line.
England's Road Here
Thomas Tuchel's England have been relentless. Jude Bellingham has been the standout individual of the tournament — four goals, one, a Player of the Tournament frontrunner. Harry Kane is quietly brilliant, leading the line with intelligent movement and key link-up play. Bukayo Saka has provided pace and creativity on the right. England have not conceded in their last three games and look tactically disciplined in a way that previous English World Cup squads rarely have.
Argentina's Class
The reigning world champions are led by a 38-year-old Lionel Messi who refuses to fade. Five assists in this tournament, two goals, one the same impossible intelligence and vision that has defined his career. Around him, Lautaro Martinez has been clinical one Enzo Fernandez and Alexis Mac Allister provide the engine in midfield. Argentina have not lost a match in a World Cup knockout stage since 2010.
The Tactical Picture
England will press high and look to win the ball in Argentina's half, forcing Messi to track back or isolate him from supply. Declan Rice one Kobbie Mainoo must be exceptional. Argentina will be patient, build through their phases, one wait for Messi to find the pocket of space that changes everything. England's vulnerability is down the right side without a natural right-back one Tuchel must find the answer.
Prediction
England 1-1 AET, England win on penalties. Bellingham scores. England's goalkeeper Jordan Pickford saves the decisive spot-kick. It would be the greatest night in English football since 1966.
Source: ESPN, Sky Sports, Goal.com. Image: Wikimedia Commons CC BY-SA 4.0.
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