This is a monumental clash as England’s Three Lions face off against the World Cup champions, Argentina’s Albiceleste, for the first time in over two decades.
England secured their place in the semi-finals by overcoming Norway, with Bellingham delivering a match-winning double in extra time, marking just their third semi-final appearance since the 1966 tournament hosted in England.
Argentina, on the other hand, required a couple of goals in extra time to narrowly defeat Switzerland after also going the distance with Cape Verde and coming back from a two-goal deficit against Egypt.
Under Thomas Tuchel, England has proven to be a formidable opponent, remaining unbeaten in competitive fixtures since his arrival. However, Argentina poses a significant challenge.
Argentina is riding a six-match unbeaten streak in competitive play, while England has not lost a non-friendly fixture since October 2024 when they were defeated by Greece.
For England to reach a World Cup final for the first time since 1966, they must accomplish what no other team has managed to do – defeat Argentina in a World Cup semi-final.
Argentina has never missed out on reaching the World Cup final once they advance to the semifinals, and they are geared up for their sixth last-four appearance, aiming to uphold their remarkable record.
1978 World Cup
As the host nation for the 1978 World Cup, Argentina made it to the final after leading a four-team group in the second round. They had initially finished second in their group during the first round to advance.
The second round format of the 1978 tournament served as the semifinal stage, similar to the 1974 tournament held in West Germany.
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1986 World Cup
Argentina returned to the semifinals at the 1986 World Cup, where they faced Belgium, defeating them 2-0 thanks to a second-half brace from Diego Maradona.
Maradona was also pivotal in the quarter-finals, scoring twice to help Argentina triumph over England 2-1.
1990 World Cup
During Italia 1990, Argentina again reached the last four, facing the host nation and winning 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regular time.
However, it was a heartbreaking end for the Argentines as they fell 1-0 to West Germany after conceding a late penalty.
2014 World Cup
Argentina had to wait until the 2014 World Cup in Brazil to return to the semifinals, where they met The Netherlands. With neither team scoring, the match was decided through penalties, which Argentina won 4-2.
2022 World Cup
At the Qatar 2022 World Cup, Argentina advanced to the semifinals and convincingly defeated Croatia 3-0 to secure their spot in the final, which they won against France in a penalty shootout.
Messi scored twice, while Kylian Mbappe netted a hat trick in the thrilling final that took place four years ago.
As the world anticipates tonight’s thrilling encounter, will England be able to break Argentina’s impressive semifinal streak, or will the reigning champions continue their dominance? Today’s match will provide the answer.
By James Agberebi
