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Projected Lineups and Details for England vs. Argentina World Cup Semifinal

England vs. Argentina: Semifinal Showdown at Mercedes-Benz Stadium

England and Argentina prepare to clash in a highly anticipated World Cup semifinal in Atlanta. This match adds another chapter to their storied history in the tournament.

Argentina, led by Lionel Scaloni, aim to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to win consecutive World Cup titles. England chase their first major trophy since 1966 and hope to reach the Euro 2024 final rematch against Spain, who defeated France in their semifinal.

Their World Cup encounters include a 1-0 England win in the 2002 group stage and a 2-2 Round of 16 draw in 1998 that Argentina won on penalties after David Beckham’s red card. The 1986 quarterfinal famously featured Diego Maradona’s Hand of God and Goal of the Century, ending England's run.

England Projected Starting XI (4-2-3-1)

From right to left:

  • Goalkeeper: Jordan Pickford (No. 1)
  • Defenders: Ezri Konsa (2), John Stones (5), Marc Guehi (6), Nico O'Reilly (3)
  • Midfielders: Elliot Anderson (8), Declan Rice (4), Bukayo Saka (7), Jude Bellingham (10), Anthony Gordon (18)
  • Forward: Harry Kane (9)

Injuries: Jordan Henderson is out with a broken wrist; Declan Rice has illness concerns but trained ahead of the match.

Suspensions: Jarell Quansah serves the second game of his red-card suspension.

Thomas Tuchel faces questions over right-back, though Konsa is expected to keep his place after filling in during the 2-1 quarterfinal win over Norway. Kane and Bellingham have scored nearly all of England’s goals so far, both tied with six in the Golden Boot race.

Argentina Projected Starting XI (4-1-3-2)

From right to left:

  • Goalkeeper: Emiliano Martinez (23)
  • Defenders: Nahuel Molina (26), Cristian Romero (13), Lisandro Martinez (6), Nicolas Tagliafico (3)
  • Midfielders: Leandro Paredes (5), Rodrigo De Paul (7), Alexis Mac Allister (20), Enzo Fernandez (24)
  • Forwards: Lionel Messi (10), Julian Alvarez (9)

No injuries or suspensions reported. Romero and Paredes recovered from extra-time substitutions in the quarterfinal against Switzerland and should start. Scaloni might adjust the lineup to a 4-3-3 by replacing Paredes with Nicolas Gonzalez or Thiago Almada.

Messi leads Argentina with eight goals and faces England for the first time in this tournament.

Match Prediction and Viewing Info

We think it will be a tight contest, with England edging Argentina 3-2 after extra time.

Where to watch in the United States: The match airs on FOX with streaming on fuboTV, Fox One, and the Fox Sports app.

Other regions’ broadcasts include TSN in Canada, BBC One in the UK, SBS in Australia, and Unite8 Sports in India.

Squads Overview

England's roster features experienced players like Pickford, Stones, and Kane, alongside young talent such as Bellingham and O'Reilly. Manager Thomas Tuchel balances youth and experience in his squad.

Argentina's squad includes stalwarts like Messi, Martinez, and Otamendi, supported by promising stars including Mac Allister and Alvarez. Scaloni’s team mixes European-based players with those from the Americas.