For football fans of a certain generation, some World Cup matches live on long after the final whistle and England versus Argentina certainly is one of them. The rivalry has delivered triumph, heartbreak, controversy and moments that have become part of sporting folklore.
Now, almost three decades after their last World Cup meeting, the two heavyweights are preparing to write another chapter with a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at stake when they do battle at 5am (AEST) tomorrow morning.
Waiting there is Spain, which secured its spot with a polished 2-0 victory over France in the first semi-final.
For many older supporters, memories of England and Argentina stretch back well beyond today’s stars.
There was Argentina captain Antonio Rattin’s controversial dismissal during the 1966 World Cup, Diego Maradona’s infamous “Hand of God” goal and dazzling solo effort in Mexico in 1986, and David Beckham’s red card before England’s heartbreaking penalty shootout exit in 1998.
Those moments belong to history, but they remain woven into one of international football’s most compelling rivalries.
England captain Harry Kane says his side is focused on creating its own story.
“It’s England versus Argentina,” Kane said this week. “Two of the biggest nations going toe to toe.”
The build-up has brought its share of off-field noise, as speculation emerged after England midfielder Jude Bellingham appeared dismissive when asked about comments made by coach Thomas Tuchel following the quarter-final win over Norway, prompting suggestions of tension within the camp.
Kane rejected those claims, saying it was easy for outsiders to try to create division and insisting England remained united ahead of its biggest test of the tournament.
England is chasing its first World Cup final appearance since lifting the trophy on home soil in 1966.
Bellingham has become increasingly influential during the knockout rounds, while Kane continues to lead from the front after another productive tournament.
Standing in England’s way is an Argentina side that continues to find answers when the pressure rises.
The defending champions have not always produced their most fluent football during the knockout stages, but they have repeatedly found a path through.
At the centre of it all is Lionel Messi.
Now 39, the Argentine superstar will face England in a World Cup for the first time in his remarkable international career, adding another layer of intrigue to an already captivating contest.
Argentina is also chasing history, attempting to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the men’s World Cup.
Authorities in Atlanta have tightened security around Mercedes-Benz Stadium ahead of what is expected to be one of the tournament’s biggest occasions.
History alone guarantees plenty of emotion. Whether this semi-final produces another moment to sit alongside Maradona’s magic or Beckham’s heartbreak remains to be seen.
If past meetings are any guide, whenever England and Argentina collide at a World Cup, football fans know they are rarely watching an ordinary match.
Watch the Semi Final between England and Argentina live for free on SBS On Demand
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