Disclaimer: This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The predictions and analyses provided do not constitute financial or betting advice.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals feature four of the strongest teams entering the tournament, with France and Spain battling on one side of the bracket and England looking to stop Argentina’s bid for back-to-back World Cup titles on the other.
Looking for the other semifinal matchup? Check out our France vs. Spain semifinals picks.
With a place in the final on the line, here are our Pick’em selections for Argentina vs. England on Laki Daily.
MF Jude Bellingham, England (Dribble Attempts: 3.5)
England will have youth, pace, and physicality on their side, and it should not surprise anyone if Jude Bellingham once again plays a key role against Argentina.
Bellingham has been central to England’s World Cup run, giving the Three Lions a midfielder who can carry the ball forward, break pressure, and attack space between the lines. Against an Argentina side that will look to disrupt England’s rhythm in midfield, Bellingham should have enough chances to take defenders on and clear this number.
Prediction: Higher
F Lionel Messi, Argentina (Passing Attempts: 39.5)
Argentina find themselves in a difficult tactical matchup against England, with the Three Lions expected to lean on youth, energy, and aggressive pressing for 90 minutes.
For Lionel Messi, that may mean fewer clean scoring chances, but it also gives him a clear path to impact the match as Argentina’s connector. As shown earlier in the knockout stage, Messi does not always need to be the goalscorer for Argentina to win. If he drops deeper to dictate tempo, link midfield to attack, and control possession, his passing volume could climb quickly.
Prediction: Higher
GK Emiliano Martínez, Argentina (Saves: 3)
England are one of the most dangerous attacking sides left in the 2026 World Cup, with Jude Bellingham, Anthony Gordon, Noni Madueke, and Harry Kane all capable of creating or finishing chances.
That said, three saves is still a tricky line. Martínez may be busy, but Argentina’s defensive structure should be focused on limiting England’s clean looks at goal rather than allowing constant shots on target. England can threaten throughout the match, but Martínez finishing with fewer than three saves remains a reasonable pick.
Prediction: Lower
DM Declan Rice, England (Passing Attempts: 36.5)
England’s attack depends heavily on how well they build through midfield, and Declan Rice should have an important role in keeping the ball moving against Argentina.
La Albiceleste will likely rely on Enzo Fernández and Leandro Paredes to pressure England’s midfield and make progression uncomfortable. Still, Rice has the composure and responsibility to hold his ground, recycle possession, and help England manage the tempo. If England spend enough time building from midfield, he has a strong chance to go over this passing line.
Prediction: Higher
Argentina and England bring two very different profiles into this semifinal. Argentina have experience, composure, and Messi’s ability to control the rhythm of a match, while England have athleticism, pace, and several attacking options who can change the game quickly.
For Pick’em players, this matchup comes down to game flow. If England press high and force Argentina into long defensive stretches, goalkeeper and passing markets could become important. If Argentina slow the match down and make it a midfield battle, Messi and Rice could both see plenty of involvement. (JOIN PICK’EM NOW)
