World Cup 2026: England v Argentina is Three Lions’ biggest match since 1966

England and Argentina met in another quarter-final at Mexico City’s Azteca Stadium in the 1986 World Cup; In the background was the Falklands War four years earlier.

It was the day that Diego Maradona not only sang his famous song “Hand of God” but also scored his magnificent second goal; Argentina won 2-1 and then lifted the World Cup.

France ’98 featured a classic last 16 match remembered for David Beckham’s goal against Diego Simeone and the lone goal that catapulted 18-year-old Michael Owen to global superstar status.

Argentina won on penalties, further increasing the Three Lions’ World Cup woes.

There were still bad feelings between the two teams when they met again four years later in a World Cup group match under the dome of Sapporo in Japan.

This time proved redemption for Beckham, who scored the winning goal with a first-half penalty, but Argentina complained long and loudly, insisting Owen had failed during a challenge from future Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino.

Tuchel said: “This is a huge rivalry between two great football playing countries.

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

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

It is this background, this history of acrimony, that elevates this match above other semi-finals.

England have had many memorable matches over the last six decades; But winning this match will surpass them all and offer a chance for historic victory in Sunday’s World Cup final against Spain.