England Face Argentina in 2nd Straight World Cup Semifinal as Messi, Bellingham Loom

3 articles · Updated · ESPN · Jul 13

Argentina reached a second consecutive World Cup semifinal after beating Switzerland, setting up an Atlanta clash with England after England eliminated Norway.
Nico Baier said pride is high in Argentina for a team that has overcome adversity, though doubts persist about its overall level and the physical toll of dramatic knockout matches.
He expects Lionel Scaloni's side to keep its usual approach—take the initiative, build through passes and generate volume for its forwards—rather than make major tactical changes for England.
Baier called Lionel Messi impossible to fully contain, suggesting England's best chance is to cut midfield passing lanes, while Emiliano Martínez gives Argentina a clear edge if the match goes to penalties.
Beyond Messi, Baier highlighted Lisandro Martínez as one of Argentina's standout players, while saying Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane are the England threats Argentina will watch most closely.