Argentina and England will face each other in a high-pressure World Cup semi-final, with a place in the final at stake.

Argentina, led by Lionel Scaloni, are aiming to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to win two consecutive World Cups. A victory would also give Lionel Messi a dream ending to his international career.

Messi, who is 39 years old, has been one of Argentina’s key players in the tournament. He helped Argentina win the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and, despite earlier suggestions that it would be his last tournament, he has returned to guide his team into another semi-final.

Argentina, three-time world champions, have won their previous matches against Cape Verde and Egypt, both ending in 3-2 victories. However, England are expected to provide a much tougher challenge.

England coach Thomas Tuchel’s team has depended heavily on captain Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham, who have scored most of England’s goals in the tournament. The match will be the first competitive meeting between Argentina and England since the 2002 World Cup.

Tuchel said his team feels the pressure but is excited for the big match. He also confirmed that midfielder Declan Rice is fit to play despite recent illness.

The Argentina-England rivalry has a long history of dramatic moments. Their most famous World Cup meeting came in 1986 when Argentina defeated England 2-1, with Diego Maradona scoring his legendary “Hand of God” goal and a stunning solo goal.

The teams also faced each other in the 1998 World Cup, when England’s David Beckham was sent off and Argentina won on penalties.

The rivalry is also linked to the long-running dispute over the Falkland Islands, known as the Malvinas in Argentina. However, Scaloni said the focus should remain on football and not past conflicts.

Both teams, ranked among the world’s top four by FIFA, are fighting for a place in the final against Spain.

Spain reached the final after defeating France with a strong performance. Luis de la Fuente’s side secured a convincing win, with Mikel Oyarzabal scoring from a penalty and Pedro Porro adding another goal.

De la Fuente praised his players for their hard work, teamwork, and commitment throughout the tournament.