Konsa admits England have not watched Argentina ahead of World Cup semi-final

Ezri Konsa has admitted England have not yet watched a single Argentina game ahead of their World Cup semi-final, with the Aston Villa defender expecting the coaching staff to address that gap in a team meeting before the two sides meet in Atlanta.

“We haven’t managed to watch any of their games,” Konsa said. “I’m sure, when we have the meeting tonight or tomorrow, we’ll see some clips of them and see what we can do to overcome them. I’m sure they’ve got a great mindset, great mentality, and so do we.”

Argentina have navigated a demanding knockout path, defeating Cape Verde, Egypt, and Switzerland — with Lionel Messi central to each victory — to reach the last four.

Konsa has started all six of England’s matches at the tournament and could again be deployed at right back, a position he filled against Norway despite his natural role as a centre-half at club level. “It’s a position that I’m very familiar with,” he said. “I’ve always said wherever the manager wants me to be, I’ll always do my best and I feel comfortable there whether it’s centre back or right back. So we’ll have to wait and see tomorrow if I’m doing the same role.”

One of the more personal storylines surrounding the semi-final is Konsa’s long-standing relationship with Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, his club teammate at Aston Villa. Konsa was measured about the reunion, acknowledging what Martínez brings while making clear sentiment will not factor in once the game begins.

“He is a fantastic keeper, great keeper. I have played alongside him for many years — his mentality and the way he wants to win, I have learned some things from him from my time at Villa, so it will be nice to see him tomorrow,” Konsa said. “Everyone knows Emi Martínez, we know what he’s about and know what he can do, so we will be ready. Once we get on that pitch, there’s no friends.”

England’s place in the final is not yet secured, but a win in Atlanta would set up a potential showpiece against Spain in New Jersey.