The footballing world is eagerly waiting for another phenomenal clash, as England takes on Argentina in the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Lionel Messi will be the center of attention again as he leads La Albiceleste to yet another World Cup final after overcoming obstacles put up by the England team that has shown exceptional resistance in this event under the leadership of Thomas Tuchel.
He now has the hopes of ending decades of disappointment in the World Cup for the Three Lions.
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England vs Argentina Preview
One of the most formidable sides in the tournament has undoubtedly been England. The Three Lions kicked off their journey with an impressive 4-2 win over Croatia, followed by a 0-0 draw against Ghana.
After that, they managed to beat such teams as Panama, DR Congo, and Mexico, while Jude Bellingham continued proving his significance with his two goals in a sensational comeback win for England over Norway in the knockout stage with a score of 2-1.
Argentina is also doing a great job, proving its right to title defense, as recently, Lionel Scaloni's team has scored two spectacular wins with their extra-time performances.
After an impressive hat-trick against Algeria, Lionel Messi has successfully scored more goals against other teams, including Austria, Jordan, Cabo Verde, and Egypt.
With stats, form, and probable line-ups in mind, we have prepared a combined starting XI for this mouth-watering showdown.
Lionel Messi Vs Jude Bellingham
Lionel Messi is shining in the competition once again, scoring goals along with assists and match-winning contributions.
Jude Bellingham is the lifeblood of the team, whereas Harry Kane is spearheading the attack.
If England were to reach the finals, it would put an end to their long wait from 1966. Messi and Argentina will have another opportunity to etch the legacy of one of the finest international careers of all time.
When And Where To Watch England vs Argentina Tonight?
Match: England vs Argentina
Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026 Semi-final
Date: July 16 (IST)
Kick-off Time: 12:30 AM IST
Fans can watch the match through the official FIFA World Cup 2026 broadcasters in their respective regions.
Win Probability
Argentina's experience in knockout football gives them a slight edge, although England have repeatedly shown they can fight back under pressure.
Argentina: 45%
England: 32%
Draw (90 Minutes): 23%
England vs Argentina Prediction
It is anticipated that England will keep themselves close together and depend upon rapid moves passing through the likes of Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka and Harry Kane, while Argentina will go back to depending once more on Lionel Messi together with Julian Alvarez.
England vs Argentina Predicted Score: Argentina 2-1 England (After Extra Time)
England vs Argentina Combined Predicted XI
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Goalkeeper: Emiliano Martinez (Argentina)
Right Back: Reece James (England)
Centre Back: Cristian Romero (Argentina)
Centre Back: Marc Guehi (England)
Left Back: Nicolas Tagliafico (Argentina)
Defensive Midfielder: Declan Rice (England)
Central Midfielder: Alexis Mac Allister (Argentina)
Right Winger: Bukayo Saka (England)
Attacking Midfielder: Jude Bellingham (England)
Left Winger: Lionel Messi (Argentina)
Centre Forward:Harry Kane (England)
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Reason Behind The Choices In Combined XI
Emiliano Martinez (Argentina) – Argentina's World Cup hero remains the ultimate big-game goalkeeper with his commanding presence and penalty-saving ability.
Reece James (England) – His defensive strength and quality deliveries make him one of the best right-backs in the tournament.
Cristian Romero (Argentina) – The defensive leader combines aggression, composure and world-class anticipation.
Marc Guehi (England) – Guehi has enjoyed an outstanding World Cup campaign with his calm defending and consistency under pressure.
Nicolas Tagliafico (Argentina) – His experience and defensive discipline earn him the nod at left-back.
Declan Rice (England) – England's midfield anchor continues to dominate games with his ball-winning ability and leadership.
Alexis Mac Allister (Argentina) – The Liverpool midfielder provides creativity, composure and excellent control in possession.
Bukayo Saka (England) – His pace, dribbling and direct attacking threat make him one of England's biggest weapons.
Jude Bellingham (England) – The tournament's standout midfielder continues to deliver goals and inspirational performances in crucial matches.
Lionel Messi (Argentina) – The captain remains the biggest difference-maker on the pitch, leading Argentina's charge with another extraordinary World Cup campaign.
Harry Kane (England) – England's all-time leading scorer leads the line with his clinical finishing, movement and ability to perform in the biggest matches.