England’s attacking stars have dominated the headlines throughout the FIFA World Cup, but Argentina believes the biggest threat may lie deeper in Thomas Tuchel’s team.
As both nations prepare for a blockbuster semi-final clash in Atlanta on Wednesday night, Argentine analysts have highlighted two England midfielders they believe could decide the contest.
Spain has already secured a place in Sunday’s World Cup final, leaving England and Argentina to battle for the remaining spot in what promises to be one of the tournament’s biggest encounters.
Bellingham and Kane Continue to Lead England’s Charge
Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane have been central to England’s impressive run to the semi-finals.
The duo has combined for 12 of England’s 13 goals during the tournament, underlining their importance in Tuchel’s attack.
Their latest contributions came in the dramatic quarter-final victory over Norway, where Bellingham struck twice to inspire England to a 2-1 extra-time win and book their place in the last four.
While Argentina fully recognizes the threat posed by the two attacking stars, local media believes England’s success begins much earlier in the build-up.
Declan Rice Viewed as England’s Midfield Anchor
Argentine newspaper Clarin has identified Declan Rice as one of England’s most influential players and someone Lionel Scaloni’s side must limit if they hope to reach another World Cup final.
According to the publication, Rice provides the balance that allows England to function effectively.
His defensive awareness protects the back line, while his positioning helps cover advancing full-backs and gives England control when building attacks from deep.
The report suggests that disrupting Rice’s rhythm could significantly reduce England’s ability to dictate possession.
Elliot Anderson Also Emerges as a Major Concern
Alongside Rice, Clarin singled out Elliot Anderson as another player capable of causing Argentina serious problems.
The midfielder was praised for constantly offering himself as a passing option, receiving possession under pressure, turning quickly, and linking different phases of England’s play.
The publication described Anderson as the player who connects the team’s structure, making him a vital piece in Tuchel’s tactical system despite receiving less attention than England’s star forwards.
Scaloni Urged to Press England’s Double Pivot
Rather than focusing solely on England’s defenders, the Argentine analysis recommends applying intense pressure to Rice and Anderson whenever England attempts to build from the back.
The report argues that preventing the pair from receiving possession while facing forward could disrupt England’s attacking rhythm before dangerous moves even begin.
Julian Alvarez is expected to lead the first line of pressure, while midfielders Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernandez, and Alexis Mac Allister could be tasked with closing down England’s central duo.
Lionel Messi, operating in a freer role, may also help by cutting off passing lanes or waiting for opportunities to intercept loose balls.
Avoiding Midfield Mistakes Will Be Crucial
The Argentine media also warned that losing possession in central areas could prove disastrous against England.
According to the tactical assessment, England is especially dangerous when recovering the ball around Rice and Anderson, quickly transitioning into attacks through the pace of Anthony Gordon and Bukayo Saka or the creativity of Bellingham.
The suggested strategy is to deny England space through the middle, force attacks into wider areas, and encourage crosses instead of allowing quick combinations through central channels.
Tactical Battle Could Decide the Finalist
Although Bellingham and Kane remain England’s headline performers, Argentina appears convinced that controlling Rice and Anderson may be the key to stopping Tuchel’s side.
Whether Scaloni adopts the proposed pressing strategy remains to be seen, but Wednesday’s semi-final could ultimately be decided by whichever midfield gains control of the game’s tempo rather than by the tournament’s biggest names alone.
