England Receive Major Fitness Boost Ahead of World Cup Semi-final Against Argentina
England manager Thomas Tuchel has been handed a significant boost ahead of the FIFA World Cup semi-final after confirming that virtually his entire squad is available for selection against Argentina.
The Three Lions face the defending champions at the Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta on Wednesday, with the winners earning a place in Sunday’s World Cup final against Spain.
Spain secured the first ticket to the final after defeating France 2-0, ending Les Bleus’ hopes of reaching a third consecutive World Cup final.
Tuchel’s only absentee is suspended defender Jarell Quansah, while midfielder Declan Rice has been declared fit despite recent concerns over his condition.
Tuchel Confident England Can Overcome Champions
Speaking ahead of the highly anticipated encounter, Tuchel dismissed suggestions that Argentina are unbeatable and insisted England have prepared thoroughly for the challenge. “All the players are fit to play tomorrow,” Tuchel said before adding, “Everybody is good and fit to go, except Jarell who is suspended.”
The England boss also stressed that both teams have weaknesses despite Argentina’s impressive campaign, and admitted that “every team is beatable, and so is Argentina and so is England.”
Tuchel revealed that his coaching staff have spent considerable time analysing the South Americans and believes England have a clear plan to reach their first World Cup final since lifting the trophy in 1966.
Argentina, meanwhile, are aiming to retain the title they won four years ago after overcoming Cape Verde, Egypt and Switzerland in the knockout rounds, with two of those victories requiring extra time.
The semi-final will also mark Lionel Messi’s first World Cup meeting with England, adding another chapter to one of international football’s most historic rivalries.
Golden Boot Race Adds More Drama
The contest could also have a major impact on the race for the Adidas Golden Boot.
Messi heads into the match level with France captain Kylian Mbappe on eight goals. With Mbappe eliminated following France’s defeat to Spain, the Argentine captain now has the opportunity to move clear at the top of the scoring chart.
England’s Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham remain firmly in contention with six goals apiece. Bellingham has been particularly prolific, scoring four goals in England’s last two matches, including braces against Mexico and Norway.
With a place in the World Cup final and individual honours both on the line, another memorable showdown between two of football’s biggest nations awaits in Atlanta.