The England v Argentina match will take place on 15 July in the semi-finals of the 2026 World Cup. The fixture will be held at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta and will mark the latest instalment in the legendary rivalry between these two football giants.
England’s form
England have not looked entirely convincing in this tournament, but the team are showing character and consistently getting results. Under Thomas Tuchel, the Three Lions have reached the semi-finals, although their performances have not always been assured.
Latest news:
- Jarrell Quansa is suspended for the match
- Declan Rice has been struggling with a niggle but could return
- Harry Kane remains the main attacking threat
The team is well-balanced across all lines, but occasionally suffers defensive lapses.
Argentina’s form
Argentina are in excellent form heading into the match. The reigning champions have won all six of their matches in this tournament and scored 17 goals.
Lionel Scaloni’s side:
- have won 11 of their 13 play-off matches that went beyond 90 minutes
- have scored at least three goals in four consecutive matches
- boast a formidable attacking line-up
Lionel Messi continues to rewrite history — he is the all-time leading goalscorer and assist provider in World Cup history.
Statistics
England have been inconsistent against top-tier sides
In the play-offs, the team have taken few corners (11 in total)
Argentina regularly score goals
In 6 of Argentina’s last 7 matches, the total goals have gone over 2.5
Probable line-up
Pickford — Spence, Stones, Gay, O’Reilly — James, Anderson — Saka, Bellingham, Gordon — Kane
E. Martínez — Medina, Romero, L. Martínez, Tagliafico — de Paul, Paredes, Fernández, McAllister — Messi — Álvarez
Conclusion
A tense match is expected, with England relying on their organisation and Argentina on their attack. That said, the Argentines appear more consistent in decisive matches.
England are capable of putting up a fight, but Argentina look more experienced and consistent in the knockout stages. That is precisely why it is worth considering the option of Argentina progressing.
A likely scenario is an evenly matched game in normal time, with Argentina gaining the upper hand at crucial moments.
Prediction for the England v Argentina match
Draw in normal time + Argentina to progress at 3.00
