The Independent
·13 Juli 2026
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Yahoo sportsThe Independent
·13 Juli 2026
Preparations are underway for England’s seismic semi-final with Argentina as Thomas Tuchel looks to guide the country to a first World Cup final since 1966.
England gritted to a 2-1 extra-time win over Norway in the quarter-finals, Jude Bellingham notching a brace after Andreas Schjelderup’s first-half opener had the Three Lions fearing an exit.
They are now on a collision course towards a clash with holders Argentina and Lionel Messi, who also required extra time to overcome Switzerland last time out.
Rivalries will be restored the two nations steeped in historical tension, both on and off the pitch, with England out to avenge their heartbreaking 1998 penalties defeat in an effort to go one game away from a World Cup title.
If England beat Argentina to progress to the World Cup final, they will face either Spain or France who clash on Tuesday.
That side of the draw sees the two tournament favourites go head-to-head in the last-four - whoever wins there will take some beating.
Will Castle13 July 2026 10:00
Preparations are underway for England’s seismic semi-final with Argentina as Thomas Tuchel looks to guide the country to a first World Cup final since 1966.
England gritted to a 2-1 extra-time win over Norway in the quarter-finals, Jude Bellingham notching a brace after Andreas Schjelderup’s first-half opener had the Three Lions fearing an exit.
They are now on a collision course towards a clash with holders Argentina and Lionel Messi, who also required extra time to overcome Switzerland last time out.
Rivalries will be restored the two nations steeped in historical tension, both on and off the pitch, with England out to avenge their heartbreaking 1998 penalties defeat in an effort to go one game away from a World Cup title.

England are one win away from a first World Cup final since 1966 (Martin Rickett/PA) (PA Wire)







































