Alexis Mac Allister has identified Argentina's FIFA World Cup semi-final experience as a critical advantage ahead of their July 2026 showdown against England. The 27-year-old midfielder, who scored in the 3-1 extra-time quarter-final win over Switzerland, spoke about the team's mindset during a post-match interview.
What did Mac Allister say?
"We feel good, we understand that this performance wasn't as good as we wanted, we have an amazing team, we have the experience of playing a World Cup semi-final, so hopefully that helps," Mac Allister told Guillem Balague in the mixed zone. The Premier League star has started every Argentina match at the tournament, missing only minutes in one game.
Argentina's path to the semi-final
La Albiceleste required extra time to overcome Switzerland on 12 July 2026, with Mac Allister opening the scoring via a glancing header from a Lionel Messi corner. This marked Argentina's third World Cup semi-final in four editions. Earlier in the tournament, they survived a two-goal deficit against Egypt and needed extra time versus Cape Verde.
Tactical adjustments against England
Reports suggest coach Lionel Scaloni may alter Argentina's 4-4-2 diamond formation for the England clash. Journalist Gaston Edul revealed the tactical rethink comes after Scaloni admitted "something needs to change" post-Switzerland. England, meanwhile, reached their fourth semi-final under Thomas Tuchel with a 30-minute extra-time win over Norway.
Historical context
Argentina and England's semi-final meeting revives memories of their 1986 World Cup encounter, where Diego Maradona scored both the "Hand of God" and his iconic solo goal. This July 2026 clash carries similar weight, with Argentina aiming to defend their title against a resurgent England side.