A place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final is on the line as defending champions Argentina prepare to clash with England in a blockbuster semifinal at the Atlanta Stadium in Georgia on the night of July 15, Tuesday. The victor will advance to face Spain in the ultimate battle for the trophy on Sunday. However, ahead of this monumental encounter, both camps have been plagued by physical concerns after knockout campaigns. All eyes are now on the team sheets to see if key talisman Lionel Messi and midfield engine Declan Rice will be fit enough to lead their nations tonight.
Lionel Messi – Playing Today
Yes, Lionel Messi is passed fit and is expected to start today’s semi-final match. During Argentina’s exhausting overtime quarterfinal victory over Switzerland, Messi suffered a heavy blow to his right eye following a collision with Granit Xhaka. He was seen receiving on-field medical attention and played through the rest of the game with visible discomfort. However, team doctors have officially given him the green light after the pain subsided during subsequent training sessions.
Declan Rice – Playing TodayÂ
Yes, Declan Rice is fully recovered and is expected to start for England today. The Arsenal midfielder caused concern in the English camp when he was substituted at halftime during the quarterfinal win over Norway due to a severe sickness bug. However, manager Thomas Tuchel confirmed in his pre-match press conference that Rice has fully recovered and was able to participate in final training sessions without any complications. He will resume his starting position in the heart of England’s midfield.
Cristian Romero – Fit to play
Yes, Cristian Romero is fit to play. The Tottenham center-back had to be replaced during extra time against Switzerland due to sheer physical exhaustion. Fans feared a recurring injury, but Scaloni’s medical team has officially cleared him of any muscular problems, meaning he will start tonight.
Jordan Henderson – Out (Injured)
No, Jordan Henderson will not play today. The midfielder remains sidelined and has been officially ruled out of the semi-final after suffering a broken arm in a freak accident following England’s last-16 win over co-hosts Mexico.
Jarell Quansah – Out (Suspended)
No, Jarell Quansah will not play today. The young defender is completely unavailable for selection tonight as he serves a suspension.
England vs Argentina Starting XIs (Predicted):
Predicted England XI vs Argentina (4-2-3-1): Pickford; James, Konsa, Guehi, O’Reilly; Anderson, Rice; Rogers, Bellingham, Gordon; Kane
Predicted Argentina XI vs England (4-1-2-1-2): E. Martinez; Molina, Medina, Lisandro Martinez, Tagliafico; Paredes; De Paul, Mac Allister; Fernandez; Julian Alvarez, Messi
