Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni has made a significant change to his starting lineup for the World Cup semi-final against England, opting to bench midfielder Rodrigo De Paul in favor of 21-year-old Giuliano Simeone. The decision marks a departure from Scaloni’s typically consistent team selection and sees the son of Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone thrust into a high-stakes match.
De Paul has been a key figure for Argentina since Scaloni took charge, providing energy and defensive solidity in midfield. However, his form has been questioned by some observers, leading to speculation about a potential change. Giuliano Simeone, who plays his club football for Atlético Madrid, will now be tasked with filling the void alongside Leandro Paredes and Alexis Mac Allister.
England manager Thomas Tuchel has also made alterations to his side, naming three changes from the quarter-final victory over Norway. Morgan Rogers, Reece James, and Djed Spence have been selected in the starting eleven, replacing Noni Madueke, Nico O’Reilly, and Ezri Konsa respectively. The England lineup features a familiar attacking quartet of Gordon, Bellingham, Rogers, and captain Harry Kane.
The confirmed lineups reveal a 4-2-3-1 formation for England, with Pickford in goal and a back four of James, Guéhi, Stones, and Spence. Rice and Anderson will anchor the midfield. Argentina will line up in a 4-4-2, with Emiliano Martínez in goal and Messi partnering Álvarez up front. The match promises a compelling tactical battle between two of the tournament’s strongest teams.
This match pits two of the world's biggest footballing nations against each other, with both sides boasting a wealth of attacking talent. The inclusion of Simeone Jr. adds an emotional layer to the contest, with his father watching from the stands. The outcome of the semi-final will determine which team progresses to the World Cup final.
