England will take on defending champions Argentina in one of the biggest matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with a place in the final at stake.

While much of the attention has focused on Lionel Messi, analysts believe the outcome could be determined by the battle in midfield rather than the Argentine captain alone.

The winner will face Spain, who secured their place in the final after defeating France in the other semifinal.

Argentina's Midfield Could Be the Key

Argentina's success throughout the tournament has been built on a disciplined and technically strong midfield featuring Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister, and Leandro Paredes.

The quartet controls possession, dictates the tempo of matches and creates opportunities for Messi to influence games in dangerous attacking areas.

Rather than relying solely on Messi's brilliance, Argentina have consistently dominated matches through their midfield structure and ball control.

England Must Win the Midfield Battle

England manager Thomas Tuchel is expected to rely on Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham, and Elliot Anderson to disrupt Argentina's passing rhythm.

Football analysts believe England's priority should be limiting the service reaching Messi instead of deploying strict man-marking tactics.

If England can control central areas, force turnovers and maintain possession, they may reduce Argentina's attacking threat before Messi receives the ball.

Wide Areas Could Offer England an Advantage

Argentina's attacking full-backs often leave space behind during forward movements.

England's wide players, including Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon, could exploit these spaces through quick counter-attacks and overlapping runs.

Captain Harry Kane is also expected to play a key role by creating space for midfield runners and linking attacks in the final third.

Set Pieces Could Influence the Match

Both teams have been highly effective from set-piece situations throughout the tournament.

Argentina have scored several goals from corners and free-kicks, many delivered by Messi, while England remain one of the strongest aerial teams in the competition.

With two evenly matched sides, dead-ball situations could become decisive in determining who advances to the final.

England Must Avoid Defensive Approach

Football experts suggest England should avoid dropping too deep if they take the lead.

Argentina have repeatedly shown the ability to recover from difficult situations, scoring several late goals during the tournament through sustained pressure and patient attacking play.

Maintaining a high press and controlling possession may give England their best opportunity to limit Argentina's influence.

World Cup Final Place on the Line

Argentina are aiming to become the first nation in more than six decades to successfully defend the FIFA World Cup title.

England, meanwhile, are seeking their first World Cup final appearance since 1966 and hope to end a long wait for global football's biggest prize.

With elite talent on both sides, the semifinal promises to be one of the tournament's defining matches.