Projected Lineups and Key Details for England vs Argentina World Cup Semifinal in Atlanta

World Cup Semifinal: England Faces Argentina in Atlanta

The semifinal at Mercedes-Benz Stadium pits England against Argentina in a clash that adds another chapter to their deep World Cup rivalry. Lionel Scaloni's Argentina, the reigning champions, aim to become the first team since Brazil in the late '50s and early '60s to win consecutive titles.

England seek their first major trophy since 1966 and hope to reach the Euro 2024 final rematch against Spain, who beat France on Tuesday.

The teams have met twice previously at the World Cup: England won 1-0 in the 2002 group stage, while Argentina triumphed on penalties in the 1998 Round of 16 after a 2-2 draw marked by David Beckham’s red card. The memory of Maradona’s Hand of God and Goal of the Century from Mexico ’86 still looms large.

England Expected Starting XI (4-2-3-1)

Goalkeeper: Jordan PickfordDefenders: Ezri Konsa, John Stones, Marc Guehi, Nico O'ReillyMidfielders: Elliot Anderson, Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, Jude Bellingham, Anthony GordonForward: Harry Kane

Declan Rice remains a question mark due to illness and fitness issues but trained ahead of the semifinal. Right-back duties are likely to remain with Ezri Konsa, who switched from center-back during the quarterfinal victory over Norway.

Kane and Bellingham lead England’s scoring with six goals each, sharing the top spots in the Golden Boot race.

Argentina Projected Starting XI (4-1-3-2)

Goalkeeper: Emiliano MartinezDefenders: Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Nicolas TagliaficoMidfielders: Leandro Paredes, Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo FernandezForwards: Lionel Messi, Julian Alvarez

No injuries or suspensions threaten Argentina's lineup. Romero and Paredes, subbed off in extra time during the quarterfinal against Switzerland, are expected back. Scaloni might adjust tactics, possibly replacing Paredes with Nicolas Gonzalez or Thiago Almada for a 4-3-3 formation.

Messi, with eight goals in this tournament, faces England for the first time at a World Cup.

Match Prediction and Broadcast Info

We think it could be a thrilling contest ending 3-2 in extra time favoring England.

The match airs on FOX in the United States, with streaming available through fubo, Fox One, and the Fox Sports app or website.

Squad Details

England Coach: Thomas Tuchel

The squad features notable players such as Dean Henderson, Jordan Pickford, John Stones, Reece James, Jude Bellingham, Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka, and Marcus Rashford. Injuries affect Jordan Henderson and possibly Declan Rice, while Jarell Quansah serves a suspension.

Argentina Coach: Lionel Scaloni

Key players include Emiliano Martinez, Lisandro Martinez, Nicolas Tagliafico, Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister, Julian Alvarez, Lautaro Martinez, and Lionel Messi.

This semifinal promises a high-stakes encounter between two football giants with storied histories on the world stage.