Former England captain Rio Ferdinand has revised his World Cup winner prediction, now backing England to lift the trophy after they secured a semi-final spot against Argentina. The Three Lions edged past Norway 2-1 to reach the last four for only the fourth time in their history, with Jude Bellingham scoring twice for the second consecutive match.
Ferdinand's Changing Predictions
Ferdinand initially tipped France to win the tournament before it began, but switched his prediction to Spain as the knockout stages progressed. However, after England's quarter-final victory, he now believes Thomas Tuchel's side has the resilience needed to triumph.
Speaking on his 'Rio Ferdinand Presents' podcast, Ferdinand said: "When the chips are down and things aren't going well, England are working things out. It's like a jigsaw puzzle and we're showing we're able to find the right piece at the right time."
England's Path to the Semi-Finals
England join France, Spain, and Argentina in the semi-finals. France advanced after beating Morocco, while Spain eliminated Belgium with a late winner from Mikel Merino. Argentina defeated 10-man Switzerland 3-1 after Breel Embolo's red card.
Ferdinand highlighted England's problem-solving ability as a key advantage: "I think that's one of the things we have over the others. Argentina have managed to do that a couple of times but they've looked closer to going out than we have."
