2026 World Cup: How England fared in World Cup semi-final against Argentina
Jordan Pickford: England’s lead was more confident than in the previous game against Norway. With Argentina sitting deep, Pickford had the ball at his feet a lot and could threaten behind the defense with his kicks. One poor pass that could have ended Argentina’s attack. One excellent save from a close header to keep England in front but then Fernandez was beaten late on before England lost. 7
Reece James: It was a big call for Tuchel to bring James back from the start but it was a decision that almost paid off. The right-back produced a quality performance going forward and defensively as well but the entire defense was exhausted before Martinez scored the half-time winner. 7
John Stones: It was a game that highlighted why Tuchel is always eager to have him in the side as England’s back four have more possession. A calm presence in a game with very high levels of tension. Unfortunately Stones missed his header as Martinez hit the winner. 6
Marc Guehi: It was another solid performance from Guehi who went under the radar with how strong he was throughout the game. 7
Djed Spence: He continued where he left off with an impressive performance against Norway. A good v-one full-back and his runs gave England danger at the back when Anthony Gordon broke into the middle. He was caught but Pickford produced a save. A memorable last stop for Simeone. 8
Elliot Anderson: He got on the ball a lot and kept it clicking in England’s midfield. The best game of the world cup existence. Anderson took the ball in tight spots and broke the play. He’s in excellent form after receiving a yellow card in the first half but it’s not enough to get past England. 8
Declan Rice: Rice looked back after getting sick. Covered a lot of ground as usual and linked up with James and Morgan Rogers on the right. His powerful runs were the main reason why England took the lead. However, he could not help his side get over the line. 7
Jude Bellingham: He handled the dark arts in midfield very well. A good run to win a free-kick in a dangerous position in the first half. Bellingham looked to move the ball up the field as much as possible and provided a constant threat. A large amount of work. 7
Morgan Rogers: It is brought in from the right and is pressed with real power next to Gordon. His ability to run with the ball gave England a chance to break out as Argentina grew into the game. Assisted Gordon’s goal. 7
Anthony Gordon: He scored the goal that almost put England in the World Cup final. Gordon produced another performance that highlighted his incredible power. Well pressed from the left and provided space for Rogers to break out. 8
Harry Kane: He did not participate as much as he would have liked in the first half, and had the fewest touches of anyone on the field in the first 45, as the first play stopped the flow of the game. He turned deep to find space and it was his searching ball after defending Argentina that started the year in England’s opening. 7
