The 2026 World Cup semi-final match between England and Argentina on July 16 is considered one of the most notable matches of the tournament. Before this confrontation, the British media analyzed Argentina's strengths and weaknesses and said that coach Thomas Tuchel's team still has a chance to win a ticket to the final.
According to analysis, despite being the reigning world champion, Argentina still revealed many limitations in their journey at the 2026 World Cup, especially in matches against opponents with a physically strong and well-organized playing style.
The most important factor for the England team is identified as limiting Lionel Messi's influence. The Argentine captain currently plays the role of a backward striker in coach Lionel Scaloni's tactical scheme. Although no longer operating at a high intensity like in his peak performance period, Messi can still make a difference with just a few moments of ball handling.
Therefore, controlling the central area - where Messi regularly receives the ball and organizes attacks - is considered a key task for the England midfield.
Besides, Messi no longer participates in high-intensity defense whenever Argentina loses the ball. This creates more space for the opponent's midfielders to deploy the ball in the midfield area. This is considered an opportunity for Declan Rice and his teammates to promote their ability to compete and control the game.
However, Argentina is not only dependent on Messi. Julian Alvarez has regained his form in recent matches, and Lautaro Martinez continues to prove his value with his ability to create breakthroughs when brought onto the field. Team depth is still one of the biggest strengths of the defending champion.
In midfield, Leandro Paredes plays the role of interceptor in front of the defense, creating conditions for Alexis Mac Allister and Enzo Fernandez to support the attack. However, this trio of midfielders is assessed to have not reached high form in the quarter-finals.
In addition, the ability of Argentina's midfield to compete head-to-head is also not really convincing. Coach Scaloni himself once admitted that the team faced many difficulties in fierce collisions. This opens up opportunities for England to take advantage of their physical strength and intensity to put pressure on the opponent.
Another weakness of Argentina lies in the two wing corridors. The full-backs often push up to support the attack, revealing space behind and creating conditions for the opponent's fast players to exploit. This is considered a plan for Anthony Gordon and the England wingers to create breakthroughs.
According to experts in England, Argentina also had times of slowing down and losing focus after taking the lead. If they maintained a high-intensity pressing style throughout the match, England could force their opponents to make mistakes.
However, the "Three Lions" still have to be especially cautious in set pieces. Messi still possesses the ability to make passes and high-precision free kicks, while the England defense once revealed limitations in defending high balls in the quarter-finals.
