Spain now awaits its opponent. After eliminating France in the semi-finalsSpain have 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, 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 had to wait until extra time to overcome Norway (2-1), led by a decisive Jude Bellingham with a brace. Meanwhile, Argentina also needed an extra thirty minutes to overcome Switzerland (3-1)Thanks to goals from Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez after Switzerland's equalizer in the second half, both teams arrive with significant playing time under their belts.
Argentina draws on its experience in major tournaments.
Argentina are competing in another World Cup semi-final with a squad that retains much of the core of the team that won the title in Qatar in 2022, with Lionel Messi as the technical leader of this team. Since the start of the knockout stage, however, Argentina has had to fight hard in every round. Cape Verde, Egypt, and then Switzerland pushed them to their limits, proof that Lionel Scaloni's team knows how to suffer but also leaves space for its opponents.
Furthermore, Argentina has been criticized worldwide, by many observers accusing the arbitration of being particularly favorable to him. 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 top-level World Cup, Harry Kane remains the attacking focal point, while Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden, and Declan Rice form the backbone of a team capable of alternating between ball control and rapid transitions. Good news for Thomas Tuchel ahead of this match: Declan Rice, weakened by a virus during the quarter-finalis 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 encounters 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 centuryEach 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.
