NorthStandCA logo

England vs Argentina: Lineups and Preview for World Cup Semifinal in Atlanta

The stage is set for a thrilling semifinal between England and Argentina in Atlanta. Both teams carry a storied history into this clash, with the reigning champions aiming to become the first to win consecutive World Cups since Brazil's back-to-back triumphs in 1958 and 1962.

England seeks its first major trophy since lifting the World Cup in 1966. Their goal is to reach the final and potentially face Spain, who ousted France in the other semifinal.

Previous encounters at the World Cup highlight a competitive rivalry: England edged Argentina 1-0 in the 2002 group stage, while Argentina claimed victory on penalties in the 1998 Round of 16 after a 2-2 draw marked by a red card for David Beckham. The memory of Diego Maradona’s iconic 'Hand of God' and 'Goal of the Century' moments from 1986 still lingers.

Projected Lineup: England (4-2-3-1)

Goalkeeper:

  • Jordan Pickford (#1)

Defense:

  • Ezri Konsa (#2), John Stones (#5), Marc Guehi (#6), Nico O'Reilly (#3)

Midfield:

  • Elliot Anderson (#8), Declan Rice (#4), Bukayo Saka (#7), Jude Bellingham (#10), Anthony Gordon (#18)

Forward:

  • Harry Kane (#9)

Injuries are a concern, especially with Declan Rice’s fitness wavering due to illness and nerve pain. Jordan Henderson remains sidelined with a broken wrist, while Jarell Quansah serves the second game of his suspension. Ezri Konsa continues at right-back following his shift from center-back during the quarterfinal win over Norway.

Kane and Bellingham have been the team's primary scorers, each netting six goals so far, nearly sharing the lead for the Golden Boot.

Projected Lineup: Argentina (4-1-3-2)

Goalkeeper:

  • Emiliano Martinez (#23)

Defense:

  • Nahuel Molina (#26), Cristian Romero (#13), Lisandro Martinez (#6), Nicolas Tagliafico (#3)

Midfield:

  • Leandro Paredes (#5), Rodrigo De Paul (#7), Alexis Mac Allister (#20), Enzo Fernandez (#24)

Forwards:

  • Lionel Messi (#10), Julian Alvarez (#9)

Both Cristian Romero and Leandro Paredes took part in extra time during the quarterfinal against Switzerland but are expected to start here. Coach Lionel Scaloni might adjust the formation to a 4-3-3, possibly bringing in Nicolas Gonzalez or Thiago Almada if he opts for change.

Messi, with eight goals in this tournament, prepares to face England for the first time in this World Cup.

Match Prediction and Viewing Details

The scoreline might lean towards an intense contest, with a prediction of England 3-2 Argentina after extra time. Fans can watch the match live on FOX in the United States, with streaming options available through fubo, Fox One, and the Fox Sports app.

International broadcast info includes TSN channels in Canada, BBC One in the UK, SBS in Australia, and Unite8 Sports 1 in India.

Related News