World Cup semi-final against England: Not Lautaro, but a Serie A winger
TyC Sports claims that there are unexpected changes in Argentina's XI ahead of the World Cup 2026 semi-final. Julian Alvarez will start with Messi instead of Lautaro Martinez and there is talk of attacking winger Nico Gonzalez (Serie A) starting in place of Rodrigo De Paul. Nahuel Molina could be preferred in place of Gonzalo Montiel at right back. The winners of the match, which kicks off in Atlanta on Wednesday night (20.00 UK, 21.00 CEST), will face either France or Spain in the final on 19 July.
World Cup semi-final against England: Not Lautaro, but a Serie A winger
According to Sports.
Background
The absence of Inter's striker Lautaro Martinez from the starting eleven for the semi-final could affect Argentina's attacking plan. Julian Alvarez, by playing alongside Messi, could further energize Argentina's attack. Nico Gonzalez, despite being on loan at Atletico Madrid this season, could become a key player for the Argentine side.
Why this matters
As Argentina face England in the World Cup 2026 semi-finals, making drastic changes to the starting XI will be crucial. Dropping Lautaro Martinez to the bench, playing Nico Gonzalez, is likely to increase Argentina's attacking power. The winners of this match will face either France or Spain in the final, leading to their World Cup 2026 victory.
Key Takeaways
- World Cup semi-final against England: Not Lautaro, but a Serie A winger.
- TyC Sports says there are unexpected changes in Argentina's XI ahead of World Cup 2026 semi-final.
- Lautaro Martinez remains central to Argentina's plans.
Ahead of Wednesday night's Argentina-England World Cup semi-final in Atlanta, there were clear signs of unexpected changes in Argentina's starting XI. Notably, it's not about Inter striker Lautaro Martinez; Neither is Nico Paz of Como. According to Taisi Sports, Argentina are going to give the Serie A winger a chance from the first minute.
Every step has been a tough test for Argentina so far in the knockout stages. In their title defense they needed extra time to win 3-2 against Cape Verde. They brilliantly came back from 0-2 down against Egypt to make it 3-2. Switzerland, with ten players, were beaten 3-1 in extra time in the quarters. The report says that although Lautaro Martinez, who came off the bench, scored a crucial goal, the chances of him starting in tomorrow's semi-final are slim. The coach is expected to bring forward Julian Alvarez alongside Messi.
The most notable update is to the midfield–wings balance. TyC Sports claims that the idea is to bench former midfielder Rodrigo De Paul and go with a more attacking profile. Giuliano Simeone (younger brother of Torino forward Giovanni Simeone) has been mentioned among the options, but Juventus' Serie A winger Nico Gonzalez is said to be the most likely. He has spent the season on loan at Atletico Madrid, with the club yet to activate a permanent deal, according to reports. Notably, he has played in five of Argentina's six matches in this World Cup, but has yet to get a chance to start; He has only one assist in his account.
Another change is under discussion on the defensive side. It is reported that Nahuel Molina may be preferred over Gonsalo Montiel for the right-back position. Molina also once shone in Serie A with Udinese; There is also buzz in reports that he is being linked back to Inter.
The winner of the epic match, which kicks off at 20.00 UK time (21.00 CEST) in Atlanta, will face either France or Spain for the trophy in the final on 19 July. Every minute is crucial for Argentina as the defending champions. With a powerful pressure around the box with a Messi-Alvarez combination, a winger like Nico Gonzalez on the flanks is likely to try to open up England's defense through crosses and diagonal runs. If Molina gets offensive overlaps as well, Argentina's goal may be to drop Messi down the middle and open passing lanes.
Possible Argentina XI (according to reports): Emiliano Martinez; Nahuel Molina, Christian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Nicolas Tagliafico; Nico Gonzalez, Leandro Paredes, Alexis MacAlistair, Enzo Fernandes; Lionel Messi, Julian Alvarez.
Until the day of the match, all this is speculation until the team sheet is released. Even so, there are clear signs of a growing attacking trend in the Argentina dressing room. The countdown to the start of the semi-final has begun and fans are looking forward to another classic at the Atlanta venue.
What happens next
As Argentina face England in the semi-final, players like Julian Alvarez and Nico Gonzalez are ready to attack alongside Messi. A win in this match will see the Argentina team reach the final, which will further strengthen their presence in the 2026 World Cup. Argentina's current form and player selections will determine their success in this match.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the score in Argentina vs England semi final match?
The score is yet to be announced as the match will be held on Wednesday night.
Who are the players who scored a goal in this match for Argentina?
Since the match did not take place, the details of the goal scorers are not yet available.
What is the effect of Argentina's table or position after this match?
If Argentina wins this semi-final match, they will reach the World Cup final.
Argentina
When is the next match?
Argentina's next match is the semi-final, which takes place on Wednesday night.
Who will be in Argentina's starting eleven?
Argentina starting XI may not include Lautaro Martinez, Nico Gonzalez instead.
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