Argentinian media pinpoint England's defensive frailties ahead of World Cup semi-final with Argentina

Argentina’s media have outlined a detailed tactical blueprint for dismantling England ahead of Wednesday’s World Cup semi-final, with ESPN Argentina identifying four areas Lionel Scaloni’s side could exploit at the tournament in the United States.

Thomas Tuchel’s England reached the last four after Jude Bellingham inspired a victory over Norway, with the Real Madrid midfielder and captain Harry Kane both sitting on six goals for the tournament. Argentina, the defending champions, have leaned heavily on a 39-year-old Lionel Messi — who has scored eight times in six matches — and survived testing knockout ties against Cape Verde, Egypt and Switzerland to reach the same stage.

Slow starts and high-press vulnerability

ESPN Argentina’s analysis begins with England’s tendency for slow starts, citing the first-half goal conceded against Norway and moments in the group stage when the Three Lions struggled to impose themselves in the opening phases. Argentina’s habit of pressing high and looking to establish themselves in the opposition’s half from the outset is presented as a direct counter to that pattern.

England are also said to show discomfort when pressed in possession at the back, with notable turnovers against Norway flagged as evidence. That high-press approach, the report argues, could generate multiple problems for Tuchel’s defenders.

Exposed full-backs and reliance on two attackers

A third concern centres on Tuchel’s system, which demands attack-minded full-backs and, in doing so, leaves space in behind when England lose the ball. Norway and Mexico both found moments of success out wide during the tournament, which ESPN Argentina attributes directly to England’s style of play.

The analysis also highlights how heavily England depend on Bellingham and Kane as their primary attacking threats. Stifling the pair is described as “one of Argentina’s biggest challenges” — but neutralising them is equally framed as the clearest route to victory for Scaloni’s side.

Tuchel still searching for the right formula

Finally, the report notes that Tuchel has continued to rotate and adjust his starting line-up in each match, suggesting he has yet to settle on his ideal combination. Argentina, by contrast, are described as having a “different reality”, with every player clear on their role within Scaloni’s well-drilled system.

Bellingham injury concern

Adding to England’s pre-match concerns, reports from Argentina have suggested that Bellingham is managing a shoulder injury in the build-up to the semi-final. Footage has emerged that appears to show the midfielder receiving treatment, though the full extent of the issue has not been confirmed by the England camp.