World Cup 2026: England v Argentina semi-final - Marc Guehi says pressure is on reigning champions
England prepares for Argentina challenge
England defender Marc Guehi has stated that the pressure rests with Argentina as the two teams prepare for their World Cup 2026 semi-final match. The game, scheduled for Wednesday in Atlanta at 20:00 BST, marks England’s second semi-final appearance in three World Cups. England has not reached the final since their victory in 1966.
To advance, England must overcome Argentina, in what will be another chapter in their rivalry. Past matches between the two nations have included notable moments such as Diego Maradona‘s ‘Hand of God’ goal in 1986 and David Beckham‘s red card twelve years later. Guehi, a centre-back, emphasized the significance of the upcoming match, calling it “the game of your life.”
Thomas Tuchel‘s England side secured their spot in the semi-final after defeating Norway 2-1 in extra time. Eight years prior, England was eliminated at this stage in Moscow by Croatia, despite an early lead from Kieran Trippier‘s free-kick.
Tuchel addresses team dynamics and opponent
England manager Thomas Tuchel addressed comments made by Jude Bellingham following criticism of the team’s performance against Norway. Tuchel had indicated England “got lucky” and “made life very, very difficult for ourselves” in the quarter-final. Bellingham, who scored two goals in that match, responded with “Yeah well, whatever.”
Tuchel downplayed any tension, stating, “I’m a football coach and I try to demand the very best and not settle for lower standards.” He explained that the team had debriefed the situation and was now fully focused on the upcoming match. Tuchel also confirmed that Declan Rice is ready to start against Argentina, having trained fully after recovering from illness. Jordan Henderson and Jarell Quansah are expected to be the only England players unavailable for the semi-final.
Tuchel could become the fourth manager to reach a World Cup final with a team other than their home nation. His side faces a formidable Argentina team, which is making its third appearance in the World Cup’s last four in the past four editions. When asked about the rivalry, Tuchel stated, “We don’t use it as fuel. We know why we’re here – we know what we want.”
The England manager acknowledged the historical and political tensions that have influenced the relationship between the two nations, particularly referencing the Falklands War. However, he stressed, “We respect our opponent, but we don’t dip into historic events. We don’t make it bigger than it is.”
Tuchel also spoke about facing Lionel Messi, describing him as a unique player. “How he carries the team is absolutely incredible – there are no words,” Tuchel said. “When Messi has the ball, the movement starts. The technical delivery of Messi is on the highest level.” He recognized the challenge Messi presents, noting that many coaches have tried to stop him, but Messi “seems to always have another gear and another solution.”
Argentina’s path to the semi-final
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni expressed satisfaction with his team reaching the semi-final, despite a challenging path. “We are in good shape, and we really can’t wait. This is a World Cup semifinal, and our hopes are intact,” Scaloni said. Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, has navigated tough knockout rounds.
They overcame Cape Verde 3-2 in extra time and secured a late comeback victory against Egypt, also 3-2, in Atlanta. Their quarter-final match against 10-man Switzerland required another period of extra time, ending in a 3-1 win. Scaloni remarked, “A month and a half ago, I would have taken getting to the semifinal if you had offered me that, so I don’t mind how we got here.”
Scaloni also reflected on the historical matches between England and Argentina, particularly the 1986 quarter-final. He mentioned Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ goal and his subsequent individual effort. “I think everyone remembers that game, and Diego’s performance, above all, the second goal, which will remain in all our hearts because it was so beautiful,” Scaloni stated.
Similar to Tuchel, Scaloni sought to keep politics separate from the upcoming match. “The reality is this is a football match. I am not going to mix everything up, especially regarding things that happened so long ago,” he said. He acknowledged the historical tensions but emphasized that the focus is on the football game.
The former West Ham United defender also recognized the threat posed by England’s key players, Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane, who have contributed significantly to their team’s goals in the tournament. Scaloni noted that any coach would want players of their caliber and that his team would look to neutralize them effectively. The match is scheduled for Wednesday.
Source: bbc.com
