England will meet Argentina in a World Cup semi-final on Wednesday at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. The match kicks off at 20:00 BST and marks the first competitive encounter between the sides since the 2002 finals.
Harry Kane described the occasion as “as big as it gets” and said England must focus on the football rather than the historical rivalry. The captain told ITV that the team is excited for a special game against the reigning world champions.
Jordan Pickford echoed the need to concentrate on performance, stating the side is prepared for 90 minutes, extra time or penalties. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni also downplayed the occasion, calling it simply a tough football match.
Diego Sinagra, son of Diego Maradona, said the clash is “not a normal game” for Argentines and recalled those killed in the Falklands conflict. He noted the added emotion from past World Cup meetings, including the 1986 quarter-final.
Predicted line-ups show England starting with Jordan Pickford in goal and Harry Kane up front, while Argentina are expected to line up with Lionel Messi and Emiliano Martinez.
