World Cup 2026: England v Argentina Biggest match for Three Lions since 1966

England and Argentina met in another quarter-final at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City at the 1986 World Cup, providing the context for the Falklands War four years earlier.

It was the day of Diego Maradona’s infamous “Hand of God” – as well as his sublime second goal – as Argentina won 2-1, and went on to win the World Cup.

France ’98 produced a classic last-16 game most memorable for sending off an injured David Beckham to kick out Diego Simeone, and the solo goal that catapulted an 18-year-old Michael Owen to world superstar status.

Argentina inflicted more pain at the World Cup for the Three Lions with a penalty win.

There was still lingering ill-health between the two teams when they met again four years later in the World Cup group games under the dome of Sapporo in Japan.

The moment was redemption for Beckham, who scored the winner with a first-half penalty, but the Argentine complained long and loud – insisting Wayne had dived into a challenge from future Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino.

Tuchel said: “It’s a very big rivalry between two great footballing nations.

“I can say history is irrelevant but I’m not sure. The players are aware of it. When a match provides so many iconic moments, you can’t say it’s just another football match.”

Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni – who represented his country at the 2006 World Cup – added: “We all have stories of that past time and history and it all makes it very emotional.”

This context, this history of upsets, is what elevates this fight above other semi-finals.

England have had many memorable games over the past six decades – but a win in this match would surpass them all and give them the chance of a historic victory. against Spain in the World Cup final on Sunday.