England defender Marc Guehi stated that the pressure rests on Argentina as the Three Lions get ready to face the reigning champions in the World Cup semi-finals. The match, scheduled for Wednesday in Atlanta, marks England’s second semi-final appearance in three World Cups. However, the team has not reached the final since their victory in 1966.
To advance this year, England must overcome Argentina, in what will be their sixth encounter at a World Cup. This fixture adds another chapter to one of international football’s most significant rivalries, which has historically been marked by dramatic moments, including Diego Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ goal in 1986 and David Beckham’s red card 12 years later.
Guehi, a centre-back, commented before the last-four tie, saying, “The pressure is on them, they are the world champions.” Thomas Tuchel’s side secured their spot in the semi-final at Atlanta Stadium by defeating Norway 2-1 after extra time. This match will be broadcast live.
Eight years ago in Moscow, England was eliminated at this stage by Croatia, despite having taken a 1-0 lead early in the game. Guehi described the upcoming match as “the game of your life,” emphasizing the importance of performing for one’s country.
Tuchel on team dynamics and Messi challenge
England manager Thomas Tuchel addressed a previous exchange with Jude Bellingham following criticism of the team’s performance against Norway. Tuchel had suggested England “got lucky” in the quarter-final and “made life very, very difficult for ourselves.” Bellingham, who scored twice in that match, responded with “Yeah well, whatever” when asked about his manager’s comments.
Tuchel clarified his stance, stating, “I’m a football coach and I try to demand the very best and not settle for lower standards.” He indicated that any perceived tension was resolved, adding, “I have it completely out of my system. We framed it. We debriefed it as a group and we’re all focused now. Full steam ahead.”
Regarding Bellingham’s post-match comment, Tuchel explained it as a reaction from an exhausted player after scoring two goals in a competitive match. He noted that the interviewer had not mentioned his praise for Bellingham as a “world-class player” in a “world-class decisive moment.” Tuchel concluded, “There’s no issue. We’re competing for the same goal. We are both still hungry as everyone is.”
Tuchel also confirmed that Declan Rice is prepared to start against Argentina. The Arsenal midfielder was substituted at half-time against Norway due to illness but participated fully in training on Tuesday. This means Jordan Henderson and Jarell Quansah are expected to be the only England players unavailable for the semi-final.
Tuchel could become the fourth manager to reach a World Cup final with a team other than their home nation, a feat last achieved by Austrian Ernst Happel with the Netherlands in 1978. However, his England side faces a significant challenge against Argentina, who are making their third semi-final appearance in the last four World Cups.
When asked if the historical rivalry would provide extra motivation, Tuchel stated, “We don’t use it as fuel. We know why we’re here – we know what we want.” He added that the team is “very hungry and want the next win.”
The relationship between England and Argentina has been influenced by political tensions, particularly around the Falklands War in the 1980s. Following Argentina’s 3-2 victory over Egypt in the last 16, their players were filmed singing a chant referencing the islands.
Tuchel, however, emphasized focusing on the match itself. “We respect our opponent, but we don’t dip into historic events. We don’t make it bigger than it is. It is a big football match and a big occasion.” He acknowledged the rivalry, describing it as a clash between “two big football nations who love football.”
The semi-final will mark the first time England faces Lionel Messi on the international stage. Tuchel praised the Argentina captain, stating, “How he carries the team is absolutely incredible – there are no words.” He highlighted Messi’s role as the leader and key player, noting that “When Messi has the ball, the movement starts.”
Tuchel recognized the difficulty in stopping Messi, describing him as unique with an ability to find “another gear and another solution.” He acknowledged the magnitude of the challenge, stating, “We know how big the obstacle is. We know how big the ask is.”
The upcoming match is seen as a significant event in the World Cup, with a sense of dramatic inevitability surrounding the encounter between England and Argentina. The rivalry between the two nations is deeply rooted, particularly concerning the conflict over the Falkland Islands. For Argentina, the 1982 Falklands war remains a sensitive issue, influencing their national identity and football culture.
The match is anticipated to be intense and unpredictable, with both teams known for their passionate play. There is a wider narrative surrounding the game, as it represents a crucial moment in Lionel Messi’s career. Messi, considered one of the greatest players, has been the subject of significant attention throughout the tournament.
Despite the focus on Messi, there is no hard evidence to support conspiracy theories suggesting favorable refereeing decisions to keep him in the tournament. However, the perceived lack of faith in the process, particularly concerning the sport’s governing body, has contributed to such speculation.
Messi has never played against England’s national team, but he has a history of playing against Premier League clubs. Since the 2009 Champions League final, Messi has played 26 games against English clubs, winning 17, losing four, and scoring 27 goals. His performances against English clubs have included notable displays, such as those against Manchester City and Tottenham.
Recent statistics show Messi has played only two games against Premier League teams since a 4-0 result at Anfield, with one win and one loss. His five losses against English club teams have occurred against opponents known for their high tempo and physical pressure, particularly the robust Chelsea teams of the past. England may draw lessons from how Cape Verde approached their game against Argentina by pressing higher and disrupting Messi’s supply lines.
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Source: bbc.com
