Key battles as England face Argentina in World Cup semi final
England are eyeing a first appearance in a World Cup final in 60 years as they take on Lionel Messi’s reigning champions Argentina in the last four in Atlanta on Wednesday. AFP Sport looks at key battles likely to decide the outcome of the game at the spectacular Mercedes-Benz Stadium, with Spain waiting in the […] The post Key battles as England face Argentina in World Cup semi final appeared first on The Namibian .
England are eyeing a first appearance in a World Cup final in 60 years as they take on Lionel Messi’s reigning champions Argentina in the last four in Atlanta on Wednesday.
AFP Sport looks at key battles likely to decide the outcome of the game at the spectacular Mercedes-Benz Stadium, with Spain waiting in the final.
Messi v Guehi and O’Reilly
Lionel Messi has his sights set on back-to-back World Cup triumphs. But after his exertions to help drag Argentina this far, and now aged 39, does he have it in him to inspire the Albiceleste past England?
The great number 10 will occupy his usual space in the inside-right position, with the freedom to drift out wide. The responsibility to keep tabs on him will likely fall to Nico O’Reilly and Marc Guehi.
England’s defence, which has not always looked comfortable at the 2026 World Cup, faces a tough task.
