Kathmandu, July 15
Football’s founding nation, England, is all set to face former champions Argentina in the second semifinal of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
On one side, World Cup-winning captain Lionel Messi is looking to lead Argentina toward a second consecutive title, while England captain Harry Kane is aiming to take his team to a World Cup final for the first time in 60 years. Alongside them, performances from players like Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, Cristian Romero, and Enzo Fernández could also shape the outcome of this highly anticipated semifinal.
Harry Kane (England)
England captain Harry Kane once again stands as the team’s biggest source of confidence. Kane, who won the Golden Boot at the 2018 World Cup, remains among the best number nines in world football today.
After becoming Tottenham Hotspur’s all-time top scorer in club football, he moved to German club Bayern Munich, where he has continued scoring prolifically, cementing his reputation as a world-class striker.
Kane, England’s all-time leading international scorer, has more than 80 goals for the national team. At this World Cup, he has scored 6 goals, making him a strong contender for the Golden Boot. Beyond scoring, his ability to create chances for teammates, drop deep to build play, and lead under pressure make him a major asset for England.
England’s performances haven’t always looked smooth in this tournament, but Kane has taken responsibility for driving the team forward in difficult moments. Against Argentina too, his experience and finishing will likely be England’s biggest weapon. If he gets a chance, the likelihood that he converts it is very high.
Lionel Messi (Argentina)
Widely regarded as one of the greatest players in football history, Lionel Messi is not only the centre of Argentina’s hopes but also one of the most influential players at this World Cup.
Since leading Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022, he has gone on to win nearly every major title available to him. An eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, Messi has claimed major honours ranging from the Copa América and Finalissima to the Champions League and the World Cup.
With more than 110 international goals, Messi is now the all-time top scorer in World Cup history. At this tournament, he has scored eight goals, tying with France’s Kylian Mbappé at the top of the Golden Boot race.
Alongside his goalscoring, his passing, his ability to control the tempo of a game, and his skill at creating chances even in tight spaces remain just as effective as ever. Even at age 39, Messi remains the focal point of Argentina’s attack. As captain, his experience and his ability to deliver under pressure are Argentina’s greatest strength. The semifinal against England could well become another historic night in his career.
Beyond these two central figures, several other players could also prove decisive.
Jude Bellingham (England)
England’s young midfielder Jude Bellingham is now considered one of the most complete players in world football. Having risen to prominence at Borussia Dortmund, he is now a key player for Real Madrid.
He has scored 6 goals at the 2026 World Cup so far. Scoring twice in each of the last two knockout matches, he has played a crucial role in taking England to the semifinal. His ability to join attacks from midfield, score goals, and control the game could pose a major challenge for Argentina.
Bukayo Saka (England)
Bukayo Saka is the player who sharpens England’s attack from the right wing. The Arsenal star has kept opposing defences under constant pressure with his pace, dribbling, and precise crosses.
Although he hasn’t scored at this World Cup, he has provided 3 assists. Since much of the responsibility for creating chances for Kane and Bellingham falls on Saka, containing him will be equally important for Argentina.
Cristian Romero (Argentina)
The responsibility of leading Argentina’s defence rests on Cristian Romero’s shoulders. The Tottenham centre-back is known for being an aggressive and resolute defender.
Excellent in the air, fearless in tackles, and strong at reading the game, Romero has strengthened Argentina’s defence throughout this World Cup. The primary responsibility of marking Harry Kane will largely fall to him.
Enzo Fernández (Argentina)
The Best Young Player of the 2022 World Cup, Enzo Fernández has now become the backbone of Argentina’s midfield. The Chelsea midfielder has excelled at controlling possession, playing long passes, and dictating the tempo of matches.
Enzo works to build play alongside Messi while also helping the team maintain balance by disrupting opposition attacks. His performance in the midfield battle against England’s Bellingham and Declan Rice could prove decisive for Argentina’s success.
