England face Argentina in the semi-finals of the World Cup, with victory putting them into their first final since 1966. Only three times before have the Three Lions reached this stage, and Thomas Tuchel's squad know back-to-back victories would make them legends. Standing in their way are the holders and the greatest footballer in history, Lionel Messi, who has eight goals in the tournament and shares the lead in the Golden Boot. Argentina also boast stars like Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernandez, and Cristian Romero.
Goalkeeper and Defence
Jordan Pickford will earn his 91st cap against Argentina and aims for his third clean sheet of the World Cup. Despite a fluke goal conceded against Norway, he remains a guaranteed starter when fit.
At right-back, Jarell Quansah is suspended. Ezri Konsa was solid there against Norway, but Reece James is a natural right-back and the best two-way option. James offers elite attacking and defensive ability, which could be crucial against the tournament's highest-scoring team. If James starts, Konsa would move to centre-back alongside John Stones, meaning Marc Guehi is a high-profile omission—big call number two.
Left-back is the third major debate, as whoever plays will face Messi. Djed Spence is a one-vs-one specialist, but Nico O'Reilly has impressed at 21, offering a physical mismatch and the ability to invert into midfield. Given Messi's lack of pressing at 39, O'Reilly's work in possession could be vital. O'Reilly gets the nod.
Midfield
Declan Rice played only 45 minutes against Norway due to food poisoning but should start after rest and recovery. Alongside him, Elliot Anderson provides energy and physicality out of possession, as well as quality on the ball. Jordan Henderson is unavailable, and Kobbie Mainoo lacks the same intensity.
Attack
Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham have scored 12 of England's 13 World Cup goals and are automatic starters. On the right wing, Noni Madueke has four starts but was substituted at half-time against Norway. Bukayo Saka, though not fully fit, was more threatening in his 75 minutes and gets the nod. On the left, Marcus Rashford is the only other England goalscorer after Kane and Bellingham, but Anthony Gordon's four assists and defensive work ethic cannot be ignored. Gordon helps O'Reilly against Messi.
Express Sport's England XI vs Argentina: Pickford; James, Konsa, Stones, O'Reilly; Rice, Anderson; Saka, Bellingham, Gordon; Kane.
