England and Argentina renew one of football’s greatest rivalries when they meet in the FIFA World Cup semi-finals on Wednesday, July 15, with a place in Sunday’s final on the line.
Thomas Tuchel’s side have built momentum through resilience and clutch performances, while reigning champions Argentina continue to rely on Lionel Messi’s brilliance and the clinical finishing of Julián Álvarez.
With two of the tournament’s form teams colliding in Atlanta, another dramatic knockout encounter appears inevitable.
Odds provided by Hollywood Bets.
Match analysis
This semi-final is likely to be decided in midfield.
England have arguably been the tournament’s most resilient side, overcoming adversity against DR Congo, Mexico and Norway through composure under pressure and decisive contributions from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane.
Tuchel’s side have repeatedly shown they are comfortable winning ugly if required.
Argentina, meanwhile, remain the competition’s highest-scoring team.
Lionel Scaloni’s side have scored 17 goals on their route to the semi-finals, with Messi continuing to dictate games despite operating more selectively, while Julián Álvarez’s movement and finishing have provided the perfect complement to the captain’s creativity.
The tactical battle may come down to whether England can deny Messi space between the lines while preventing Argentina from creating dangerous set-piece situations – an area where the defending champions have excelled throughout the tournament.
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