FIFA World Cup 2026: James, Spence back for England, De Paul benched for Argentina in 2nd semi-final
Atlanta, July 16
England have made three changes to their starting 11 for the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final against Argentina on Wednesday, with Morgan Rogers, Djed Spence and Reece James all coming into the lineup.
The Lionel Messi-led Argentina have also made one change, as Giuliano Simeone replaces Rodrigo De Paul in the starting line-up.
Rogers replaces Noni Madueke, while James returns at right-back, according to ESPN. Spence takes over at left-back in place of Nico O'Reilly. It marks Rogers' second start of the tournament, having previously featured in the starting lineup as a No. 10 against Panama.
Reece James' return comes as a major boost for Thomas Tuchel's side. The Chelsea defender started England's opening two matches of the tournament before a hamstring injury ruled him out of the wins over Panama, DR Congo and Mexico.
Argentina arrive unbeaten after winning all six of their matches in the tournament, including hard-fought knockout victories over Egypt, Cape Verde and Switzerland. Lionel Scaloni's side are seeking a second successive World Cup final after lifting the trophy in Qatar in 2022.
England, meanwhile, are aiming to reach only the second World Cup final in their history, having last contested and won the showpiece event in 1966. A victory over Argentina would also extend the Three Lions' recent positive run in major tournaments, with Wednesday's contest marking their fourth semi-final appearance since 2018.
Argentina vs England starting line-ups for the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal
Argentina's starting 11: Emi Martinez, Nicolas Tagliafico, Lisandro Martinez, Cristian Romero, Nahuel Molina, Leandro Paredes, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez, Julian Alvarez, Lionel Messi, Giuliano Simeone.
England's starting 11: Jordan Pickford, Reece James, Marc Guehi, John Stones, Djed Spence, Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson, Jude Bellingham, Morgan Rogers, Harry Kane.
— ANI
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