EA Sports FC 26 has simulated England's World Cup semi-final against Argentina, predicting a stunning 4-2 victory for Thomas Tuchel's side despite playing with 10 men for 40 minutes. The simulation, run ahead of the real match on July 15, 2026, saw Harry Kane score twice, with Marc Guehi and Elliot Anderson also on target, cancelling out Lionel Messi's brace.
England Line-Up and Early Drama
The simulated England starting XI featured Jordan Pickford in goal; Reece James, Ezri Konsa, Marc Guehi, and Nico O'Reilly in defence; Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson, and Jude Bellingham in midfield; with Bukayo Saka, Harry Kane, and Anthony Gordon up front. The match began disastrously for England, as Nico O'Reilly conceded a penalty for handball after just two minutes. Lionel Messi converted the spot-kick to give Argentina an early lead.
England responded quickly, with Harry Kane equalising from the penalty spot in the 14th minute after Jude Bellingham was fouled by Rodrigo De Paul. However, Messi restored Argentina's lead on the half-hour mark with a powerful finish past Pickford.
England's Stunning Comeback
England showed remarkable resilience to turn the match around before half-time. Marc Guehi headed home from a Declan Rice corner in the 34th minute, with Alexis Mac Allister's failed clearance assisting the goal. Four minutes later, Elliot Anderson nodded in Reece James's cross to give England a 3-2 lead. Right on the stroke of half-time, Harry Kane scored his second goal of the match after capitalising on a mistimed tackle by Cristian Romero, making it 4-2.
Red Card and Defensive Grit
The second half saw more drama as Nico O'Reilly received a straight red card in the 50th minute for a reckless challenge on De Paul, leaving England with 10 men and no specialist left-back. Despite the numerical disadvantage, England's defence held firm, and the match ended 4-2, sending England to their second-ever World Cup final, where they would face Spain.
According to the simulation, England's mental strength and defensive discipline were key to securing the victory. The result would exorcise the ghosts of Euro 2024 and bring the Three Lions closer to ending 60 years of hurt.
