Simulation Predicts Six-Goal Thriller
EA Sports FC 26 has simulated the 2026 World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina, predicting a breathtaking 4-2 victory for Thomas Tuchel's side. The simulation, which ran ahead of the official kick-off, forecast a chaotic match featuring a brace from both Harry Kane and Lionel Messi, a red card for England's Nico O'Reilly, and a dramatic first half that ended 4-2.
England's Starting XI
According to the simulation, England lined up with Jordan Pickford in goal; a back four of Reece James, Ezri Konsa, Marc Guehi, and Nico O'Reilly; a midfield trio of Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson, and Jude Bellingham; and a front three of Bukayo Saka, Harry Kane, and Anthony Gordon. The lineup reflected hope that Reece James would return from injury to solve Tuchel's right-back dilemma.
Early Disaster for England
The match began disastrously for England. Just two minutes in, Nico O'Reilly was adjudged to have handled the ball in the box, conceding a penalty. Lionel Messi, who had missed two penalties earlier in the tournament, stepped up and thumped the spot-kick down the middle to give Argentina an early lead. England were shellshocked, and Julian Alvarez nearly doubled the lead two minutes later, hitting the side-netting after losing Marc Guehi.
Kane Responds
England fought back in the 14th minute after Jude Bellingham was shoved in the back by Rodrigo De Paul, earning a penalty. Harry Kane slammed his penalty home to level the score. Bellingham almost scored a goal of his own on 24 minutes, but Emiliano Martinez made a crucial save after good work from Gordon.
Messi Strikes Again
On the half-hour mark, Messi scored his second with a thumping finish across Pickford into the bottom right corner, following patient build-up play inside the England box. England again showed resilience, equalizing four minutes later through Marc Guehi. The Manchester City defender rose highest to meet Declan Rice's corner, and his powerful header found the top corner via Alexis Mac Allister's failed goalline clearance.
England Take the Lead
England's momentum continued on 38 minutes when Elliot Anderson, completely unmarked at the penalty spot, nodded in a brilliant cross from Reece James to give England a 3-2 lead. Pickford then denied Alvarez from close range before further drama unfolded. Right on the stroke of half-time, Kane punished former Tottenham teammate Cristian Romero after a wild tackle, smashing the ball home from six yards to make it 4-2 at the break.
Red Card and Gritty Defense
The second half could not match the first for drama. England were composed until the 50th minute, when Nico O'Reilly slid in recklessly from behind on De Paul, earning a straight red card. Despite being a man down for the majority of the second half, England's resolve hardened. The passing remained crisp, possession was controlled, and no further incidents occurred. The match ended 4-2 to England.
Implications
If the simulation proves accurate, England would advance to only their second-ever World Cup final, where they would face either Spain or France. The victory would exorcise the ghosts of Euro 2024 if Spain are the opponents, and set up a potential final in New Jersey where Harry Kane could lift the trophy.
