England fans gathered in Benidorm ahead of the World Cup semi-final against Argentina in Atlanta, sharing their predictions and hopes for the match. Thomas Tuchel is set to make three changes to the side that beat Norway in the quarter-final, with Morgan Rogers starting on the right wing.
Tuchel's Tactical Changes
Morgan Rogers gets the nod on the right side of attack, replacing Noni Madueke, with both Bukayo Saka and Madueke remaining on the bench. In defence, John Stones keeps his place alongside Marc Guehi, but Ezri Konsa, who has played every minute so far, is set to be replaced by Reece James at right-back. On the left, Djed Spence is expected to start in place of Nico O'Reilly after an impressive cameo in the 2-1 win over Norway.
According to reports, both Djed Spence and Reece James are set to be handed starts, with Ezri Konsa dropping out. It is a big call for Tuchel, particularly given the threat Argentina pose.
Rogers' Selection Explained
Some might question Tuchel's decision to select Morgan Rogers over Bukayo Saka, but it seems a smart pick. Rogers had a brilliant cameo against Norway, and his energy in the early stages against Argentina could prove valuable. Saka is clearly not as fit as he should be, managing an Achilles injury, and if he needs to come on for the final 30 minutes or penalties, England have an excellent auxiliary option.
Rogers' ability to drive forward in transition and help in midfield will allow Jude Bellingham to stay closer to Harry Kane, rather than being dragged into deeper areas.
Historic Context and Rivalry
Tonight is another chapter in an epic rivalry, with the reigning champions desperate to become only the third team to win back-to-back World Cups after Italy (1934, 1938) and Brazil (1958, 1962). It is also the first ever match for the Three Lions against Lionel Messi.
Spain await the winners in the final on Sunday, and many of Tuchel's men would like nothing more than another crack at La Roja, following the Euro 2024 final where they fell just short.
Fan Atmosphere in Benidorm
England fans in Benidorm are gathering in large numbers, with many predicting a win for the Three Lions. The atmosphere is electric, with supporters wearing England shirts and waving flags.
Meanwhile, in Atlanta, fans are beginning to arrive at the stadium. The gates are not open yet, but thousands are already outside. There are many more Argentina shirts than English, but England flags are visible from every corner of the country, including Blackpool, Wigan, Runcorn, Reading, Portsmouth, and Corby.
Security Concerns
The semi-final has been classed as the highest-risk match at the World Cup after the FBI and local police met to discuss the rivalry. Argentina's players have chanted songs about the Falklands after matches, and the US authorities are concerned it could lead to fan violence.
Argentina's Minister of National Security, Alejandra Monteoliva, confirmed that fans will not be allowed to carry flags or show messages relating to the Falkland Islands in the stadium.
Kane's Milestone
Harry Kane will make history tonight, surpassing Wayne Rooney to become England's most capped outfield player of all time with 121 caps. That will push him just four away from Peter Shilton's record.
Kane told ITV: "Most outfield capped player. Yeah. Another. Another special one. Again. It's so hard to process all this I think in the tournament situation going past some of the names I have, it started with obviously Beckham at 115 and now going past Wazza at 120. England legends, England greats that you know, until I'm probably retired I won't fully appreciate I'm amongst those names. But yeah, it's totally the last thing on my mind going into these games because it's all about the team. It's all about getting into that final."
Expected Starting XI
Expected England Starting XI: Pickford; James, Stones, Guehi, Spence; Rice, Anderson; Rogers, Bellingham, Gordon; Kane.
