England defender Marc Guehi has declared that all the pressure is on Argentina ahead of Wednesday's World Cup semi-final in Atlanta, as the reigning champions attempt to become the first team to win back-to-back World Cups since Brazil in 1962.
Speaking ahead of the highly anticipated clash, Guehi insisted England will embrace their underdog status and that Argentina will be feeling the heat because they are expected to defend their title.
“There isn’t pressure on us. What’s the pressure? The onus is on them. They’re the World Champions. They need to come out, they need to defend their title. There’s no pressure on us at all,” Guehi said.
England Relishing Underdog Role
Guehi emphasized the excitement within the England camp, saying: “Everyone is excited, to be honest. The occasion, big players, everyone’s relishing the opportunity against them and looking forward to it.”
England advanced to the semi-finals after a gruelling extra-time victory over Norway, which took a physical toll on the squad. Guehi admitted the match was intense, with the heat playing a significant factor, but stressed that such concerns fade in knockout stages.
“It was intense. The heat plays a massive factor in it. But when you’re in a quarter-final or a semi-final, all that stuff goes out the window. It doesn’t matter, it’s just about getting through it and doing the best you can,” he said.
Fitness and Readiness
The Crystal Palace centre-back also addressed a hamstring injury scare that had raised doubts about his availability for the Norway match. Guehi confirmed he is fully fit and ready for the semi-final.
“I’m all healed up from whatever concern it was, so ready to go for it. I’m looking forward to this game. We don’t know what the outcome is going to be,” he added.
Guehi acknowledged the threat posed by Argentina, including Lionel Messi, but highlighted England’s own attacking talents in Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham.
“We’re playing one of the best players in the world, but we know that. Everyone is relishing the opportunity, everyone is ready to go,” Guehi said.
A Grudge Clash with History
The rivalry between England and Argentina extends beyond the pitch, adding extra spice to the semi-final. Guehi, however, is focused on the challenge ahead.
“It’s a big game with big players. Both sides have great players and when you have that it’s just going to be a good game. You know it’s going to be a fun watch and one we’ll be talking about for a long time. So, yeah, excited,” he concluded.
