England faces Argentina in World Cup semi-final, tactical changes suggested
England is set to face Argentina in a World Cup semi-final match on Wednesday night in Atlanta. Former Manchester United and France defender Mikael Silvestre believes England ‘should’ win the match but emphasises the need to control Lionel Messi. The match follows the first semi-final between France and Spain in Arlington.
Silvestre noted that Argentina has a strong World Cup history, having won the tournament three times, including the most recent edition, and reaching two of the last three finals. In contrast, England has won the tournament once and has appeared in one final, compared to Argentina’s six. Despite this, bookmakers consider England as slight favourites for the upcoming encounter.
Tactical Considerations Against Messi
Silvestre, who played against Messi during his time at Arsenal, highlighted the challenge Messi presents. He advised that defenders must be constantly aware of Messi, even when he appears to be walking, as he is often analysing the game for his next decisive move. Communication among the back four and with the midfield is crucial to track Messi’s movements.
He stressed the importance of knowing Messi’s position at all times, particularly when he is not actively engaged, as his subsequent burst of speed can be decisive. Silvestre suggested that England’s task might be easier than facing Argentina four years ago, citing the South American team’s ageing squad and potential fatigue due to less rotation and playing extra time in previous matches.
Former Watford captain Troy Deeney also weighed in on England’s defensive strategy, particularly concerning Nico O’Reilly. Deeney suggested that Tottenham full-back Djed Spence could be a stronger defensive option against Messi, who is expected to operate in the areas O’Reilly has covered throughout the tournament. Deeney proposed that Spence could be tasked with man-marking Messi.
Squad Fitness and Selection Dilemmas
O’Reilly, primarily an attacking midfielder, has adapted to the left-back role for England, starting five of the team’s six matches in North America. Deeney, however, believes O’Reilly’s performances have been average and that he has avoided the scrutiny faced by other teammates, such as Noni Madueke.
Despite calls for a tactical change, O’Reilly is expected to be available for the semi-final after overcoming fitness concerns. England has also received positive news regarding Declan Rice, who was substituted during the quarter-final victory over Norway due to illness but is anticipated to be fit enough to play against the reigning world champions.
Reece James is another player who could return to the starting line-up, having made a comeback from a hamstring injury as a substitute against Norway. His fitness will be evaluated before the match. Jarell Quansah remains unavailable due to suspension. Should Thomas Tuchel opt not to start James, Spence could also be considered for the right-back position, presenting the England manager with a selection challenge for one of the most significant matches of his tenure.
England will play Argentina on Wednesday night, with a spot in the World Cup final at stake, as Tuchel’s side aims to reach the tournament’s showpiece event for the first time since 1966.
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Source: metro.co.uk
