Spain now awaits its opponent. After eliminating France in the semi-finals , La Roja has qualified for the World Cup final. The second place in the final will be decided this Wednesday evening in Atlanta between Argentina, the reigning world champions, and England, still seeking their first world title since 1966. A prestigious match-up, marked by a historic rivalry and featuring two of the most talented squads in the tournament.
Two hard-fought qualifications
Neither team had an easy quarter-final. England needed extra time to overcome Norway (2-1) , thanks to a decisive brace from Jude Bellingham. Argentina also required an extra thirty minutes to defeat Switzerland (3-1) , with goals from Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez after Switzerland had equalized in the second half. Both teams therefore arrive with significant playing time under their belts.
Argentina draws on its experience in major tournaments.
Argentina have reached another World Cup semi-final with a squad largely unchanged from the team that triumphed in Qatar in 2022, with Lionel Messi as the team's technical leader. Since the start of the knockout stage, however, Argentina have had to fight hard in every round. Cape Verde, Egypt, and then Switzerland pushed them to their limits, demonstrating that Lionel Scaloni's team can withstand pressure but also leaves space for their opponents.
Furthermore, Argentina has faced criticism worldwide, with many observers accusing the refereeing of being particularly favorable to them. All eyes will be on the referee and Messi…
England driven by a new generation
The Three Lions approach this semi-final with a particularly deep squad. Jude Bellingham is having a superb World Cup, Harry Kane remains the attacking force, while Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden, and Declan Rice form the backbone of a team capable of alternating between possession and rapid transitions. Good news for Thomas Tuchel ahead of this match: Declan Rice, hampered by a virus during the quarter-final , is expected to be fit to play. Jude Bellingham, who had caused some concern after suffering a shoulder injury, should also be available.
One of the fiercest rivalries in world football
Beyond the sporting stakes, Argentina-England evokes a long history. The clashes between the two nations remain marked by the 1986 World Cup quarter-final and Diego Maradona's two now-legendary goals: the Hand of God and the Goal of the Century . Each new encounter between the two teams rekindles this rivalry, even though the generations have changed.
A place in the final against Spain is at stake.
The winner will face Spain in Sunday's final, aiming to clinch the world title. Argentina will attempt to defend their crown and continue their reign over international football. England, meanwhile, will seek to end a sixty-year drought and return to the top of the world for the first time since their sole triumph in 1966.
