England haven't played their best football yet, says Tuchel; Scaloni unconcerned about fatigue

Photo Courtesy: X

Extra Time Web Desk

Is Wednesday night's World Cup semifinal just another football match, or something much bigger? Whenever England and Argentina face each other, the fixture carries decades of history, controversy, and rivalry.

The origins of this intense rivalry date back to the 1966 FIFA World Cup. England defeated Argentina thanks to Geoff Hurst's goal, but controversy erupted over whether the goal should have stood due to a possible offside. The match also sparked debate after Argentina captain Antonio Rattín was sent off, a decision that remained one of the tournament's most disputed moments.

Then came the unforgettable 1986 World Cup, when Diego Maradona scored his infamous "Hand of God" goal against England. The political backdrop added even more emotion to the rivalry, as only four years earlier the two nations had fought the Falklands War. After the match, Maradona famously described the goal as "a little bit with the head of Maradona and a little bit with the hand of God," and later suggested it felt like symbolic revenge for the Argentine soldiers who had died in the conflict, further intensifying the rivalry.

With so much history between the two nations, concerns about heightened emotions have once again surrounded this encounter. Lionel Messi is set to face England for the first time in his international career, adding another fascinating chapter to the rivalry.

The build-up has also featured provocative comments off the pitch. Former England midfielder Joe Cole said England would have to "put Messi to sleep" and insisted that England are the stronger side.

England manager Thomas Tuchel, however, has dismissed any suggestion that his team is under pressure. He admitted that England have yet to produce their best football in the tournament but believes the semifinal is the perfect stage to do so.

"We have to bring out our best in this match. We're excited. The whole squad is hungry for this game," Tuchel said.

Tuchel also confirmed that the entire squad trained ahead of the semifinal. Declan Rice has fully recovered from illness and is fit to play, while Jarell Quansah is available with no suspension concerns.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni, meanwhile, said he is not worried about his team's fatigue. Delighted to have reached the semifinals, he praised his players for their determination throughout the tournament.

"I'm grateful to the boys. The way they've brought the team to this stage has been outstanding," Scaloni said.

Everything is now set for another fiercely contested England-Argentina showdown. Supporters around the world will hope that, despite the memories of the 1966 controversy, the Falklands War, and the "Hand of God," this semifinal will be remembered primarily for its football.