England will hope to reach their second World Cup final tonight when they take on defending champions Argentina in Atlanta.
The last-four clash is the latest chapter in a long sporting rivalry between the two countries that has included Diego Maradona’s handball in 1986 and David Beckham’s controversial red card 12 years later.
Both sides have enjoyed moments of fortune in reaching this stage. England can count themselves lucky that Norway had a goal ruled out for a push by Erling Haaland on Elliot Anderson during their 2-1 victory on Saturday.
Argentina have had more than one decision go in their favour. Star man Lionel Messi was let off a red card after raking his studs down the Achilles tendon of Algeria captain Aissa Mandi in their opening game. Messi was let off and went on to score a hat-trick in a 3-0 win with Algeria putting in an official complaint to FIFA.
Another North African team felt hard done to when Egypt had a goal disallowed against Argentina in their round-of-16 clash. Their frustration was compounded when Mohamed Salah saw a penalty shout dismissed shortly before Enzo Fernandez scored the winner for the defending champions.
In the quarter-finals, Argentina were struggling to break down Switzerland until Breel Embolo was sent-off after receiving a second yellow card for simulation. Scaloni’s men went on to win 3-1 in extra-time.
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Where to watch England v Argentina: TV and online streams
England versus Argentina kicks off on Wednesday night at 8pm UK time. You can watch it on BBC One and stream via BBC iPlayer.
Stats for England v Argentina
- England have won six of 14 previous meetings with six draws (including 1986, a game Argentina won on pens)
- Among the teams they have played 3+ times at the World Cup, Argentina only hold a lower win rate against Italy (0%), Germany (14.3%), and the Netherlands (16.7%) than they do against England (20% – W1, D2, L2).
- This is Argentina’s sixth World Cup semi-final. They have reached the final from each of the previous five.
- England boss Thomas Tuchel is aiming to become the fourth manager to reach a World Cup final with a nation other than their home country
- Argentina have scored 2.6 goals per 90 minutes at this World Cup. England have managed 2.1.
- Both teams have conceded 0.9 goals per 90 minutes at this World Cup.
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