19 mins: England are looking to settle into their rhythm now and are trying to find the gaps as the Argentinian players come flying in. Honourable mention must also be given to Djed Spence who has been playing with supreme confidence.
Messi is being forced to come deep and doesn’t look comfortable with Anderson on his case.
James Hicken15 July 2026 20:21
15 mins: Our first signs of life in the game as Djed Spence plays a beautiful pass into Gordon who breaks away down the touchline and tries to cut back in onto his shooting foot, but takes a touch too many.
(Reuters)
James Hicken15 July 2026 20:16
12 mins: Tuchel has exploded on the side line as England and Argentina bodies are flying all over the pitch.
Argentina might be trying to drag England into a messy game – it is essential that the players don’t bite.
James Hicken15 July 2026 20:13
10 mins: Tuchel has clearly told his midfield men that there must be one man keeping an eye on Messi at all times as Anderson follows him deep into Argentine territory and quickly points at him, alerting Bellingham to his presence.
(PA)
James Hicken15 July 2026 20:11
6 mins: Argentina have not come to mess around, they are flying at 100mph into every challenge and are in danger of getting an early yellow card here.
James Hicken15 July 2026 20:08
4 mins: As Elliot Anderson grabs a hold of Messi, Fernandez comes flying into the back of Anderson and a flurry of pushing of shoving followed.
This game could explode at any minute, it means everything.
James Hicken15 July 2026 20:05
2 mins: An early statement of intent from Paredes as he leaves one late on Jude Bellingham for the first foul of proceedings.
England looking to hold some possession early and press high on Argentina’s defence.
James Hicken15 July 2026 20:03
Kick-off! England 0-0 Argentina
We are underway in the second of our World Cup semi finals, as Argentina claim the first touch of the ball.
The stadium is at boiling point as the fans mix in amongst each other there will no doubt be choice words shared throughout this game.
James Hicken15 July 2026 20:00
As the English national anthem played, it was near impossible to hear it, Argentinian fans had no interest in hearing it.
For the return fixture, there was a deafening cacophony of South American passion and emotion.
James Hicken15 July 2026 19:58
Michael Buffer’s iconic words ring out in the stadium as the players emerge from the tunnel for the pre-match ceremonies.
We are moments away from kick-off now – anticipation, anxiety, passion and hope of ending 60 years of struggle.
(Reuters)
James Hicken15 July 2026 19:54