Kathmandu, June 31. The rivalry between England and Argentina, which has been thrilling football fans around the world for more than four decades, is once again being repeated on the World Cup stage.

This time, what is at stake is not just a quarterfinal or group stage victory, but also a place in the final of the 2026 World Cup.From Diego Maradona's 'Hand of God' to David Beckham's red card, to Beckham's decisive goal in revenge in 2002, the meetings between these two nations have given world football many unforgettable moments.

Now, under the leadership of Lionel Messi and Harry Kane, another historic chapter is set to be written. On one side, there is defending champion Argentina, who is looking for a second consecutive World Cup title, and on the other side, England, who dream of reaching the World Cup final again after 60 years.

This semi-final is being seen as the biggest clash of the tournament as the famous rivalry of the FIFA World Cup is being revived after 24 years. The last time these two teams met on the World Cup stage was in the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

The journey so far

England started the tournament by defeating Croatia 4-2 in their first group match. Despite a goalless draw with Ghana in their second match, they defeated Panama 2-0 in the final match to enter the knockout stage as group winners.

England, who came back from a one-goal deficit against Congo in the last 32 to win 2-1, defeated co-hosts Mexico 3-2 in the last 16 despite being reduced to 10 men.

Jude Bellingham scored two goals to give England a 2-1 victory over Norway in the quarterfinals, having also lost an early lead. With this, England has reached the semifinals for the second time in the last three World Cups.

Captain Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham have scored six goals each, a rare feat for two players from a team to score at least six goals in the same World Cup. Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon have also provided three assists each, adding to the attacking fire.

Meanwhile, defending champions Argentina began their title defense by defeating Algeria 3-0 in their first group match. Captain Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick in that match, setting the record for the highest scorer in World Cup history.

Argentina then defeated Austria 2-0 and Jordan 3-1 to win the group.

Argentina, which won a hard-fought 3-2 extra-time victory over Cape Verde in the last 32, also made a last-minute comeback to defeat Egypt 3-2 in the last 16.

Despite Switzerland's strong challenge in regulation time in the quarterfinals, Argentina secured a 3-1 victory in extra time thanks to goals from Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez, advancing to the semifinals for the second consecutive time.

Messi leads the race for the Golden Boot with eight goals. Seven other players have also scored and eight have provided assists. The defense of Cristian Romero-Lisandro Martinez and goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez are another strong point for Argentina.

Head to Head

Of the 14 matches between England and Argentina so far, England has won 6 matches, Argentina has won 3 matches and 5 matches have ended in draws.

These two teams have met five times in the World Cup so far, with England winning three of them and Argentina drawing two.

England won 3-1 in the group stage in 1962. Then, in the quarterfinals of 1966, the home team England won 1-0 and continued their journey towards the World Cup title.

The most famous meeting between the two teams was the quarter-final in 1986. Diego Maradona scored the 'Hand of God' goal and then a stunning solo goal to give Argentina a 2-1 victory.

The thrilling match in the last 16 of 1998 went to a penalty shootout. Michael Owen's brilliant goal, David Beckham's red card and Argentina's eventual victory on penalties made it one of the most memorable encounters in World Cup history.

Beckham's only goal, a penalty, in the 2002 group stage was the key to England's victory. That defeat sent Argentina out of the group stage for the first time in 40 years.

Now, after 24 years, these two teams are facing off again in the World Cup. The winner this time will advance to the final of the 2026 World Cup.

Team News

England manager Thomas Tuchel has most of his first-choice players available. Captain Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham are in excellent form, while Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon are creating a constant threat from both wings. Declan Rice has provided balance in midfield.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni is also preparing to take the field with a strong team. Captain Lionel Messi is in excellent form, while Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernandez, Alexis McAllister and Rodrigo De Paul have strengthened the midfield and attack. The defense duo of Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez and Emiliano Martinez in goal will be Argentina's main reliance.

Impactful player

The main focus in this match will be on the two contenders for the Golden Boot, Harry Kane and Lionel Messi.

On one hand, World Cup-winning captain Lionel Messi is on a mission to lead Argentina to a second consecutive title, while on the other hand, England captain Harry Kane is aiming to lead the team to the World Cup final for the first time in 60 years.

Along with them, the performances of players like Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, Christian Romero, and Enzo Fernandez could also determine the direction of this much-awaited semi-final.

Possible starting 11

England: Jordan Pickford; Reece James, Ezri Konsa, Marc Guehi, Nico O'Reilly; Elliot Anderson, Declan Rice; Bukayo Saka, Jude Bellingham, Anthony Gordon; Harry Kane

Argentina: Emiliano Martinez; Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Nicolas Tagliafico; Rodrigo de Paul, Leandro Paredes, Alexis McAllister, Enzo Fernandez; Lionel Messi, Julian Alvarez

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Match: England vs. Argentina, Second Semi-Final
Date and Time: 32nd July, 12:45 AM
Venue: Atlanta Stadium
Live Broadcast: Himalaya Sports