England Look To End Argentina’s Perfect Semi-Final Record At FIFA World Cups
Retold by Oddsrama · 15 July 2026
England are facing their sternest test yet in a World Cup semi-final showdown against Argentina, the reigning world champions. Jude Bellingham's extra-time brace sent the Three Lions past Norway in the quarters, marking only their third semi-final appearance since winning the trophy on home soil in 1966. But standing between Gareth Southgate's side and a first World Cup final in nearly 60 years is an Argentina team that has never failed to reach the final once they reach the last four.
Argentina's semifinal record is genuinely frightening for England's hopes. The Albiceleste have made six World Cup last-four appearances, and each time they've progressed to the final. From Maradona's heroics in 1986 against Belgium to their penalty heroics in 2014 over the Netherlands, and most recently their 3-0 demolition of Croatia in Qatar 2022—Argentina know how to handle the pressure when it matters. They're also unbeaten in six competitive matches heading into tonight, while England haven't lost a non-friendly since October 2024, so form-wise both sides are firing.
For betting purposes, Argentina's semifinal record alone makes them worth backing, though England's defensive solidity under Tuchel cannot be dismissed lightly. The England manager has built something resilient since taking over, and the team won't come to roll over. However, Argentina's experience in this exact stage—combined with their pedigree and current momentum—gives them a legitimate edge. If you're looking at the match, Argentina's ability to grind out results, even when under the cosh, makes them a compelling proposition at the odds.
For England to make history and reach their first final since 1966, they'll need to accomplish something no other team has managed: beat Argentina in a World Cup semi-final. It's a tall order, but stranger things have happened in knockout football.
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