Mexico defeated Guatemala 3-0 in Friendlies. The fixture is part of the Friendlies 1 stage in the 2020 season. F. Hernández officiated the match. The full-time result capped a Mexico vs Guatemala meeting in Friendlies with detailed post-match statistics available on Sportra. This match centre covers lineups, live events, player ratings, team statistics, xG, head-to-head history, and related news for Mexico and Guatemala. On Sportra you can view xG, lineups, match statistics, events, player ratings, predictions, head-to-head history, and related news for this fixture.
Friendlies
GuatemalaRecorded meetings: 1 (available previous meetings, not necessarily all-time).
MexicoMexico defeated Guatemala 3-0 in Friendlies. The fixture is part of the Friendlies 1 stage in the 2020 season. F. Hernández officiated the match. The full-time result capped a Mexico vs Guatemala meeting in Friendlies with detailed post-match statistics available on Sportra. This match centre covers lineups, live events, player ratings, team statistics, xG, head-to-head history, and related news for Mexico and Guatemala. On Sportra you can view xG, lineups, match statistics, events, player ratings, predictions, head-to-head history, and related news for this fixture.
FriendliesGuatemalaRecorded meetings: 1 (available previous meetings, not necessarily all-time).
MexicoJuan Cuadrado confirmed interest from an MLS team, leading many to wonder whether he could end up as Lionel Messi's teammate at Inter Miami. Juan Cuadrado finds himself without a club after his one-year stint at Pisa in Italy’s Serie A came to an end on June 30, and Lionel Messi‘s Inter Miami have emerged as a possible suitor for the Colombian, after he confirmed he received an offer from MLS. Besides MLS, the 37-year-old player revealed in an interview with DSports that he also has offers from Mexico and a club in Europe. “There are offers from the United States, from Mexico, and one from Europe that isn’t confirmed yet, but there are talks… Right now I’m waiting on proposals, but for the moment I’m not ruling out the FPC (Professional Colombian Football),” Cuadrado revealed. While Cuadrado hasn’t revealed any of the clubs that have shown interest in him, Inter Miami could easily be one of the MLS sides in the mix for several reasons. The Colombian is currently a free agent, which would make any move straightforward from a contractual standpoint. Since he wouldn’t need to be signed as a Designated Player, the Herons wouldn’t have to touch their salary cap structure to fit him in — a detail that matters given how tightly Miami already manage their DP slots around Messi, Rodrigo De Paul and German Berterame. German Berterame celebrates a goal with Lionel Messi. (Getty Images) There’s also a clear on-field need he could fill. Facundo Mura, the Argentine right back Inter Miami signed as a free agent from Racing Club, has yet to find the level he showed during his time in Argentina. Cuadrado, who can also operate as a right-sided midfielder, would give Hoyos both direct competition for that spot and extra depth on the right flank, something the squad could use as the fixture list piles up. Cuadrado brings a wealth of experience Then there’s the experience factor. Cuadrado cuenta con muchos partidos con una alta carga de presión, having played in a Champions League final. There, he came on as a substitute for Juventus in the 2016-17 decider against Real Madrid, where they lost 1-4 in Cardiff. On the international stage, he featured for Colombia at two World Cups, 2014 and 2018, and across five editions of the Copa America, helping the team to third-place finishes in 2016 and 2021 over more than 110 caps for La Tricolor. None of that guarantees a move to Fort Lauderdale, but between the financial fit, the positional need, and the pedigree he’d bring to the dressing room, Inter Miami have plenty of reasons to keep an eye on Cuadrado’s situation as he weighs his options between MLS, Mexico, Europe and Colombia.
While his teammates continue preparations abroad, the American star is staying in Italy as the club carefully manages his recovery from the injury he suffered during the United States' World Cup campaign. Christian Pulisic has officially returned to Milanello following his extended post-2026 World Cup break, marking the beginning of an important phase ahead of the new Serie A season. While his teammates continue preparations abroad, the American star is staying in Italy as the club carefully manages his recovery from the injury he suffered during the United States’ World Cup campaign. The winger’s return comes with optimism despite the physical setback that ended his tournament. Milan remains confident that one of its most influential attacking players will be ready to make an impact early in the new campaign, although the club is taking every precaution before clearing him for competitive action. Pulisic arrived at Milanello on Thursday morning, one day later than originally scheduled after being granted additional time by the club for logistical reasons. He underwent the customary medical examinations before beginning individual work aimed at rebuilding his fitness after the injury sustained during the World Cup. The American international is not traveling with the Rossoneri on their preseason tour of Australia, instead remaining at the club’s training center to focus entirely on rehabilitation. Mexican striker Santiago Gimenez also returned to Milanello as he continues recovering from his own ankle injury suffered while representing Mexico. View this post on Instagram Pulisic suffered leg fracture in World Cup defeat to Belgium The recovery program follows an injury Pulisic suffered during the United States’ Round of 16 defeat to Belgium at the 2026 World Cup. According to The Athletic, the injury occurred when the American attempted a shot before colliding with Belgian midfielder Youri Tielemans. Although Pulisic initially tried to continue playing, he was eventually forced off the field after struggling with the pain. “I just totally twisted my ankle and my knee in one play,” the 27-year-old explained after the match. Subsequent medical examinations revealed a bone bruise and a microfracture in his right leg, specifically around the tibia-fibula junction, with earlier Italian reports also describing a microfracture to his right fibula. Doctors reportedly believe the injury requires weeks rather than months of recovery, offering encouragement ahead of the domestic season. Meanwhile at Milanello…First day back for Puli & Santi 🎞️ pic.twitter.com/Pfm8qyFDbs— AC Milan (@acmilan) July 30, 2026 Milan’s cautious recovery plan revealed Rather than accelerating his return, Milan has opted for a carefully managed rehabilitation program designed to maximize Pulisic’s long-term fitness. Italian outlets including La Gazzetta dello Sport and MilanNews report that the initial phase focuses on rest before gradually introducing rehabilitation exercises and individual training sessions. The winger is currently working separately from the main squad while recovering from bone edema around the tibia-fibula junction. The club has deliberately avoided placing unnecessary pressure on one of its most important attacking players. Instead of rushing him back into full training, Milan intends to increase his workload only when medical staff are fully satisfied with his progress. Christian Pulisic of AC Milan. Despite the cautious approach, there is growing confidence that Pulisic could be available for Milan’s opening Serie A fixture against Torino on August 23. Reports suggest new head coach Ruben Amorim expects the American to remain one of the team’s key attacking figures this season. However, neither the coaching staff nor the medical department is willing to compromise his long-term condition simply to accelerate his preseason preparations. Italian media indicate the club is even prepared to delay his return beyond the opening weekend if addit
After his concerning head colission in the MLS game against CF Montreal, Inter Miami issued a positive injury update on German Berterame. German Berterame raised alarm bells during Saturday’s MLS match, exiting early against CF Montreal following a frightening collision that required him to be taken to a local hospital by ambulance. A day after the terrifying moment, Inter Miami released an encouraging medical update regarding the striker’s status. In the 70th minute of the match between the Herons and Montreal, Berterame was involved in a hard aerial clash with defender Efrain Morales and landed awkwardly on the turf. After lying motionless for several minutes while receiving immediate medical care, the forward was loaded onto a stretcher and transferred to an awaiting ambulance. On Sunday, Inter Miami issued an official statement outlining an optimistic prognosis: “Berterame is doing well. He was discharged from the hospital today and is returning home after spending the night under observation at Montreal General Hospital.“ The club also confirmed that the Mexico international suffered injuries to his left shoulder and nose as a result of the hard hit. He is now set to begin his rehabilitation under the direct care and supervision of Inter Miami’s medical staff. No mames pobre Berterame 😖 pic.twitter.com/3TmLlfMvM5— Rhevolver (@Rhevolver) July 26, 2026 No concrete timetable has been set for his return, as the club noted that his progress “will determine the timeline for his return to physical activity.” Inter Miami returns to action next Saturday, Aug. 1, against the Columbus Crew at Nu Stadium, where head coach Guillermo Hoyos will hope to have his starting forward back in the mix. Berterame’s message to the team The 1-0 victory over Montreal carried a bittersweet tone for players shaken by the severity of Berterame’s injury. After converting the game-winning penalty in the 81st minute, Luis Suarez held up Berterame’s jersey to the broadcast cameras in a sign of solidarity with his injured teammate. Speaking to reporters after the match, Hoyos provided initial reassurance regarding Berterame’s condition: “He’s recovering right now, he’s fine, conscious. His family is aware of everything. They’re calm. The most important thing is that he’s OK, and right now he is OK.“ Following the match, Berterame reposted an Instagram story from Suárez that read “We’re with you, German,” to which the Mexican forward replied, “Thanks to everyone for the win.” With Inter Miami already weathering an injury bug alongside Lionel Messi’s absence, getting Berterame back on the pitch will be crucial for the club’s upcoming stretch. German Berterame’s Instagram story after the game. (Instagram)
After more than 100 matches across Canada, Mexico and the United States, the FIFA World Cup 2026 is about to come to an end, cementing its legacy with highs, lows — and seemingly endless controversies. So, is this the most controversial World Cup? We talk to experts to get a sense of how this year's decisions have affected the tournament.
While the tournament's grand finale between Argentina and Spain will decide the champion, England's meeting with France carries its own significance, with the result set to determine the final composition of the World Cup podium. England‘s 2-1 semifinal defeat to Argentina and France‘s 2-0 loss to Spain have set up one final challenge before the curtain falls on the 2026 World Cup. While the tournament’s grand finale between Argentina and Spain will decide the champion, England’s meeting with France carries its own significance, with the result set to determine the final composition of the World Cup podium. The outcome of the third-place playoff will settle who leaves North America with the bronze medal and who finishes just outside the medals. Although the spotlight naturally falls on Sunday’s final, Saturday’s clash still has major implications for both national teams and several individual awards. RoundFrance’s ResultsEngland’s ResultsGroup Stage Match 1Won 3–1 vs. SenegalWon 4–2 vs. CroatiaGroup Stage Match 2Won 3–0 vs. IraqDrew 0–0 vs. GhanaGroup Stage Match 3Won 4–1 vs. NorwayWon 2–0 vs. PanamaRound of 32Won 3–0 vs. SwedenWon 2–1 vs. DR CongoRound of 16Won 1–0 vs. ParaguayWon 3–2 vs. MexicoQuarter-finalsWon 2–0 vs. MoroccoWon 2–1 (AET) vs. NorwaySemi-finalsLost 0–2 vs. SpainLost 1–2 vs. Argentina What happens if England wins and France loses? Should England defeat France, whether in regulation time, extra time, or on penalties, Thomas Tuchel’s side would secure third place and claim the bronze medal, leaving France to settle for fourth. Julian Alvarez #9 of Argentina celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal. For England, it would provide a positive ending after the heartbreak of the semifinal against Argentina. The Three Lions looked destined for the final after Anthony Gordon’s second-half goal, only for Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martínez to complete Argentina’s dramatic comeback in the closing stages. Finishing third would also soften the disappointment surrounding England’s exit, giving Tuchel something tangible to build upon after guiding the national team deep into the tournament during his first major competition in charge. What happens if the game ends in a draw? Unlike group-stage matches, the third-place playoff cannot end in a draw. If England and France are level after 90 minutes, the match will continue into extra time, and should the deadlock remain, a penalty shootout will determine which nation finishes third and which finishes fourth. Harry Kane #9 of England converts a penalty That format guarantees a definitive result, meaning only one team will leave Miami with bronze medals. CountryBest Third-Place Finish HistoryLast Podium AppearanceEngland3rd Place (1966 – Winners) / 4th Place (1990, 2018)1966 (Champions)France3rd Place (1958, 1986)2022 (Runners-up) What happens if France wins and England loses? If France overcomes England, Didier Deschamps’ side will secure third place, while England will finish fourth. Kylian Mbappe #10 of France celebrates with Dayot Upamecano #4 and Michael Olise #11. France entered the tournament among the favorites after reaching the semifinals with impressive victories over Sweden, Paraguay, and Morocco. However, Spain halted Les Bleus’ title hopes with a composed 2-0 victory, preventing Kylian Mbappe from reaching another World Cup final. A bronze medal would still allow France to finish on the podium once again, adding another notable achievement to Deschamps’ remarkable spell as national team manager before his departure. How the final 2026 World Cup podium will look The winner of the third-place playoff will occupy the final podium position before the World Cup concludes with the championship match between Argentina and Spain. The possible podium outcomes are straightforward: PositionScenario A (England Wins)Scenario B (France Wins)1st Place (Gold)Spain / ArgentinaSpain / Argentina2nd Place (Silver)Spain / ArgentinaSpain / Argentina3rd Place (Bronze)EnglandFrance4t
While the fixture carries decades of history, its immediate importance lies in how the result will decide the final two matches of the tournament. Argentina and England are set to renew one of soccer’s greatest rivalries in the 2026 World Cup semifinal, with the final result set to determine far more than just bragging rights. While the fixture carries decades of history, its immediate importance lies in how the result will decide the final two matches of the tournament. La Albiceleste’s road to the semifinal has been anything but straightforward. After cruising through the group stage, Lionel Scaloni’s side survived an extra-time battle against Cape Verde, produced a remarkable comeback from 2-0 down to defeat Egypt 3-2, and eventually overcame Switzerland 3-1 after extra time thanks to Julian Alvarez’s decisive strike. England has also been forced to overcome difficult moments throughout the knockout stage. Thomas Tuchel’s squad eliminated DR Congo before edging Mexico 3-2 and then defeating Norway 3-2 after extra time, with Jude Bellingham once again proving decisive. The semifinal also renews one of soccer’s most famous rivalries. The nations have not met since a 3-2 England victory in a 2005 friendly, while this will be their first World Cup encounter since the 2002 group stage, when David Beckham’s penalty separated the teams. DateArgentina’s OpponentStageResultJuly 11, 2026SwitzerlandQuarter-finalsWin (3-1 AET)July 7, 2026EgyptRound of 16Win (3-2)July 3, 2026Cabo VerdeRound of 32Win (3-2 AET)June 27, 2026JordanGroup StageWin (3-1)June 22, 2026AustriaGroup StageWin (2-0)June 16, 2026AlgeriaGroup StageWin (3-0) Both sides enter the contest with superstar forwards leading their attacks. Lionel Messi has scored eight goals during the tournament, while Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham have each found the net six times, keeping the Golden Boot race alive heading into the final four. DateEngland’s OpponentStageResultJuly 11, 2026NorwayQuarter-finalsWin (2-1 AET)July 5, 2026MexicoRound of 16Win (3-2)July 1, 2026DR CongoRound of 32Win (2-1)June 27, 2026PanamaGroup StageWin (2-0)June 23, 2026GhanaGroup StageTie (0-0)June 17, 2026CroatiaGroup StageWin (4-2) What happens if Argentina wins and England loses? Should Argentina defeat England, regardless of whether the victory comes in regulation time, extra time, or penalties, the reigning world champion would advance to the 2026 World Cup Final. Lionel Messi #10 of Argentina celebrates with Julian Alvarez #9 after scoring against Egypt. Their reward would be a showdown against Spain, which booked its place by defeating France in the first semifinal. Victory over England would also keep alive Argentina’s dream of becoming the first nation in more than six decades to successfully defend the World Cup title. England, meanwhile, would see its championship hopes end and instead prepare for the third-place playoff against France. The Albiceleste enters the semifinal having survived several demanding knockout matches, including extra-time victories over Cape Verde and Switzerland, while also recovering from a two-goal deficit against Egypt. What happens if the match is tied after 90 minutes? Unlike league competitions, a draw cannot be the final result in a World Cup semifinal. If the score remains level after 90 minutes, two 15-minute periods of extra time will immediately follow. Should neither team break the deadlock after 120 minutes, the semifinal would be settled by a penalty shootout. Lionel Messi #10 of Argentina take a penalty kick This scenario would significantly increase the physical demands on both squads, especially considering each side has already endured exhausting knockout encounters during the tournament. The eventual winner of the shootout would advance to face Spain, while the defeated side would move into the third-place match against France. DateCompetitionH2H ResultNovember 12, 2005International FriendlyArgentina 2-3 EnglandJune 7, 2002FIFA World Cup (Group Stage)Argen
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Juan Cuadrado confirmed interest from an MLS team, leading many to wonder whether he could end up as Lionel Messi's teammate at Inter Miami. Juan Cuadrado finds himself without a club after his one-year stint at Pisa in Italy’s Serie A came to an end on June 30, and Lionel Messi‘s Inter Miami have emerged as a possible suitor for the Colombian, after he confirmed he received an offer from MLS. Besides MLS, the 37-year-old player revealed in an interview with DSports that he also has offers from Mexico and a club in Europe. “There are offers from the United States, from Mexico, and one from Europe that isn’t confirmed yet, but there are talks… Right now I’m waiting on proposals, but for the moment I’m not ruling out the FPC (Professional Colombian Football),” Cuadrado revealed. While Cuadrado hasn’t revealed any of the clubs that have shown interest in him, Inter Miami could easily be one of the MLS sides in the mix for several reasons. The Colombian is currently a free agent, which would make any move straightforward from a contractual standpoint. Since he wouldn’t need to be signed as a Designated Player, the Herons wouldn’t have to touch their salary cap structure to fit him in — a detail that matters given how tightly Miami already manage their DP slots around Messi, Rodrigo De Paul and German Berterame. German Berterame celebrates a goal with Lionel Messi. (Getty Images) There’s also a clear on-field need he could fill. Facundo Mura, the Argentine right back Inter Miami signed as a free agent from Racing Club, has yet to find the level he showed during his time in Argentina. Cuadrado, who can also operate as a right-sided midfielder, would give Hoyos both direct competition for that spot and extra depth on the right flank, something the squad could use as the fixture list piles up. Cuadrado brings a wealth of experience Then there’s the experience factor. Cuadrado cuenta con muchos partidos con una alta carga de presión, having played in a Champions League final. There, he came on as a substitute for Juventus in the 2016-17 decider against Real Madrid, where they lost 1-4 in Cardiff. On the international stage, he featured for Colombia at two World Cups, 2014 and 2018, and across five editions of the Copa America, helping the team to third-place finishes in 2016 and 2021 over more than 110 caps for La Tricolor. None of that guarantees a move to Fort Lauderdale, but between the financial fit, the positional need, and the pedigree he’d bring to the dressing room, Inter Miami have plenty of reasons to keep an eye on Cuadrado’s situation as he weighs his options between MLS, Mexico, Europe and Colombia.
While his teammates continue preparations abroad, the American star is staying in Italy as the club carefully manages his recovery from the injury he suffered during the United States' World Cup campaign. Christian Pulisic has officially returned to Milanello following his extended post-2026 World Cup break, marking the beginning of an important phase ahead of the new Serie A season. While his teammates continue preparations abroad, the American star is staying in Italy as the club carefully manages his recovery from the injury he suffered during the United States’ World Cup campaign. The winger’s return comes with optimism despite the physical setback that ended his tournament. Milan remains confident that one of its most influential attacking players will be ready to make an impact early in the new campaign, although the club is taking every precaution before clearing him for competitive action. Pulisic arrived at Milanello on Thursday morning, one day later than originally scheduled after being granted additional time by the club for logistical reasons. He underwent the customary medical examinations before beginning individual work aimed at rebuilding his fitness after the injury sustained during the World Cup. The American international is not traveling with the Rossoneri on their preseason tour of Australia, instead remaining at the club’s training center to focus entirely on rehabilitation. Mexican striker Santiago Gimenez also returned to Milanello as he continues recovering from his own ankle injury suffered while representing Mexico. View this post on Instagram Pulisic suffered leg fracture in World Cup defeat to Belgium The recovery program follows an injury Pulisic suffered during the United States’ Round of 16 defeat to Belgium at the 2026 World Cup. According to The Athletic, the injury occurred when the American attempted a shot before colliding with Belgian midfielder Youri Tielemans. Although Pulisic initially tried to continue playing, he was eventually forced off the field after struggling with the pain. “I just totally twisted my ankle and my knee in one play,” the 27-year-old explained after the match. Subsequent medical examinations revealed a bone bruise and a microfracture in his right leg, specifically around the tibia-fibula junction, with earlier Italian reports also describing a microfracture to his right fibula. Doctors reportedly believe the injury requires weeks rather than months of recovery, offering encouragement ahead of the domestic season. Meanwhile at Milanello…First day back for Puli & Santi 🎞️ pic.twitter.com/Pfm8qyFDbs— AC Milan (@acmilan) July 30, 2026 Milan’s cautious recovery plan revealed Rather than accelerating his return, Milan has opted for a carefully managed rehabilitation program designed to maximize Pulisic’s long-term fitness. Italian outlets including La Gazzetta dello Sport and MilanNews report that the initial phase focuses on rest before gradually introducing rehabilitation exercises and individual training sessions. The winger is currently working separately from the main squad while recovering from bone edema around the tibia-fibula junction. The club has deliberately avoided placing unnecessary pressure on one of its most important attacking players. Instead of rushing him back into full training, Milan intends to increase his workload only when medical staff are fully satisfied with his progress. Christian Pulisic of AC Milan. Despite the cautious approach, there is growing confidence that Pulisic could be available for Milan’s opening Serie A fixture against Torino on August 23. Reports suggest new head coach Ruben Amorim expects the American to remain one of the team’s key attacking figures this season. However, neither the coaching staff nor the medical department is willing to compromise his long-term condition simply to accelerate his preseason preparations. Italian media indicate the club is even prepared to delay his return beyond the opening weekend if addit
After his concerning head colission in the MLS game against CF Montreal, Inter Miami issued a positive injury update on German Berterame. German Berterame raised alarm bells during Saturday’s MLS match, exiting early against CF Montreal following a frightening collision that required him to be taken to a local hospital by ambulance. A day after the terrifying moment, Inter Miami released an encouraging medical update regarding the striker’s status. In the 70th minute of the match between the Herons and Montreal, Berterame was involved in a hard aerial clash with defender Efrain Morales and landed awkwardly on the turf. After lying motionless for several minutes while receiving immediate medical care, the forward was loaded onto a stretcher and transferred to an awaiting ambulance. On Sunday, Inter Miami issued an official statement outlining an optimistic prognosis: “Berterame is doing well. He was discharged from the hospital today and is returning home after spending the night under observation at Montreal General Hospital.“ The club also confirmed that the Mexico international suffered injuries to his left shoulder and nose as a result of the hard hit. He is now set to begin his rehabilitation under the direct care and supervision of Inter Miami’s medical staff. No mames pobre Berterame 😖 pic.twitter.com/3TmLlfMvM5— Rhevolver (@Rhevolver) July 26, 2026 No concrete timetable has been set for his return, as the club noted that his progress “will determine the timeline for his return to physical activity.” Inter Miami returns to action next Saturday, Aug. 1, against the Columbus Crew at Nu Stadium, where head coach Guillermo Hoyos will hope to have his starting forward back in the mix. Berterame’s message to the team The 1-0 victory over Montreal carried a bittersweet tone for players shaken by the severity of Berterame’s injury. After converting the game-winning penalty in the 81st minute, Luis Suarez held up Berterame’s jersey to the broadcast cameras in a sign of solidarity with his injured teammate. Speaking to reporters after the match, Hoyos provided initial reassurance regarding Berterame’s condition: “He’s recovering right now, he’s fine, conscious. His family is aware of everything. They’re calm. The most important thing is that he’s OK, and right now he is OK.“ Following the match, Berterame reposted an Instagram story from Suárez that read “We’re with you, German,” to which the Mexican forward replied, “Thanks to everyone for the win.” With Inter Miami already weathering an injury bug alongside Lionel Messi’s absence, getting Berterame back on the pitch will be crucial for the club’s upcoming stretch. German Berterame’s Instagram story after the game. (Instagram)
After more than 100 matches across Canada, Mexico and the United States, the FIFA World Cup 2026 is about to come to an end, cementing its legacy with highs, lows — and seemingly endless controversies. So, is this the most controversial World Cup? We talk to experts to get a sense of how this year's decisions have affected the tournament.
While the tournament's grand finale between Argentina and Spain will decide the champion, England's meeting with France carries its own significance, with the result set to determine the final composition of the World Cup podium. England‘s 2-1 semifinal defeat to Argentina and France‘s 2-0 loss to Spain have set up one final challenge before the curtain falls on the 2026 World Cup. While the tournament’s grand finale between Argentina and Spain will decide the champion, England’s meeting with France carries its own significance, with the result set to determine the final composition of the World Cup podium. The outcome of the third-place playoff will settle who leaves North America with the bronze medal and who finishes just outside the medals. Although the spotlight naturally falls on Sunday’s final, Saturday’s clash still has major implications for both national teams and several individual awards. RoundFrance’s ResultsEngland’s ResultsGroup Stage Match 1Won 3–1 vs. SenegalWon 4–2 vs. CroatiaGroup Stage Match 2Won 3–0 vs. IraqDrew 0–0 vs. GhanaGroup Stage Match 3Won 4–1 vs. NorwayWon 2–0 vs. PanamaRound of 32Won 3–0 vs. SwedenWon 2–1 vs. DR CongoRound of 16Won 1–0 vs. ParaguayWon 3–2 vs. MexicoQuarter-finalsWon 2–0 vs. MoroccoWon 2–1 (AET) vs. NorwaySemi-finalsLost 0–2 vs. SpainLost 1–2 vs. Argentina What happens if England wins and France loses? Should England defeat France, whether in regulation time, extra time, or on penalties, Thomas Tuchel’s side would secure third place and claim the bronze medal, leaving France to settle for fourth. Julian Alvarez #9 of Argentina celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal. For England, it would provide a positive ending after the heartbreak of the semifinal against Argentina. The Three Lions looked destined for the final after Anthony Gordon’s second-half goal, only for Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martínez to complete Argentina’s dramatic comeback in the closing stages. Finishing third would also soften the disappointment surrounding England’s exit, giving Tuchel something tangible to build upon after guiding the national team deep into the tournament during his first major competition in charge. What happens if the game ends in a draw? Unlike group-stage matches, the third-place playoff cannot end in a draw. If England and France are level after 90 minutes, the match will continue into extra time, and should the deadlock remain, a penalty shootout will determine which nation finishes third and which finishes fourth. Harry Kane #9 of England converts a penalty That format guarantees a definitive result, meaning only one team will leave Miami with bronze medals. CountryBest Third-Place Finish HistoryLast Podium AppearanceEngland3rd Place (1966 – Winners) / 4th Place (1990, 2018)1966 (Champions)France3rd Place (1958, 1986)2022 (Runners-up) What happens if France wins and England loses? If France overcomes England, Didier Deschamps’ side will secure third place, while England will finish fourth. Kylian Mbappe #10 of France celebrates with Dayot Upamecano #4 and Michael Olise #11. France entered the tournament among the favorites after reaching the semifinals with impressive victories over Sweden, Paraguay, and Morocco. However, Spain halted Les Bleus’ title hopes with a composed 2-0 victory, preventing Kylian Mbappe from reaching another World Cup final. A bronze medal would still allow France to finish on the podium once again, adding another notable achievement to Deschamps’ remarkable spell as national team manager before his departure. How the final 2026 World Cup podium will look The winner of the third-place playoff will occupy the final podium position before the World Cup concludes with the championship match between Argentina and Spain. The possible podium outcomes are straightforward: PositionScenario A (England Wins)Scenario B (France Wins)1st Place (Gold)Spain / ArgentinaSpain / Argentina2nd Place (Silver)Spain / ArgentinaSpain / Argentina3rd Place (Bronze)EnglandFrance4t
While the fixture carries decades of history, its immediate importance lies in how the result will decide the final two matches of the tournament. Argentina and England are set to renew one of soccer’s greatest rivalries in the 2026 World Cup semifinal, with the final result set to determine far more than just bragging rights. While the fixture carries decades of history, its immediate importance lies in how the result will decide the final two matches of the tournament. La Albiceleste’s road to the semifinal has been anything but straightforward. After cruising through the group stage, Lionel Scaloni’s side survived an extra-time battle against Cape Verde, produced a remarkable comeback from 2-0 down to defeat Egypt 3-2, and eventually overcame Switzerland 3-1 after extra time thanks to Julian Alvarez’s decisive strike. England has also been forced to overcome difficult moments throughout the knockout stage. Thomas Tuchel’s squad eliminated DR Congo before edging Mexico 3-2 and then defeating Norway 3-2 after extra time, with Jude Bellingham once again proving decisive. The semifinal also renews one of soccer’s most famous rivalries. The nations have not met since a 3-2 England victory in a 2005 friendly, while this will be their first World Cup encounter since the 2002 group stage, when David Beckham’s penalty separated the teams. DateArgentina’s OpponentStageResultJuly 11, 2026SwitzerlandQuarter-finalsWin (3-1 AET)July 7, 2026EgyptRound of 16Win (3-2)July 3, 2026Cabo VerdeRound of 32Win (3-2 AET)June 27, 2026JordanGroup StageWin (3-1)June 22, 2026AustriaGroup StageWin (2-0)June 16, 2026AlgeriaGroup StageWin (3-0) Both sides enter the contest with superstar forwards leading their attacks. Lionel Messi has scored eight goals during the tournament, while Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham have each found the net six times, keeping the Golden Boot race alive heading into the final four. DateEngland’s OpponentStageResultJuly 11, 2026NorwayQuarter-finalsWin (2-1 AET)July 5, 2026MexicoRound of 16Win (3-2)July 1, 2026DR CongoRound of 32Win (2-1)June 27, 2026PanamaGroup StageWin (2-0)June 23, 2026GhanaGroup StageTie (0-0)June 17, 2026CroatiaGroup StageWin (4-2) What happens if Argentina wins and England loses? Should Argentina defeat England, regardless of whether the victory comes in regulation time, extra time, or penalties, the reigning world champion would advance to the 2026 World Cup Final. Lionel Messi #10 of Argentina celebrates with Julian Alvarez #9 after scoring against Egypt. Their reward would be a showdown against Spain, which booked its place by defeating France in the first semifinal. Victory over England would also keep alive Argentina’s dream of becoming the first nation in more than six decades to successfully defend the World Cup title. England, meanwhile, would see its championship hopes end and instead prepare for the third-place playoff against France. The Albiceleste enters the semifinal having survived several demanding knockout matches, including extra-time victories over Cape Verde and Switzerland, while also recovering from a two-goal deficit against Egypt. What happens if the match is tied after 90 minutes? Unlike league competitions, a draw cannot be the final result in a World Cup semifinal. If the score remains level after 90 minutes, two 15-minute periods of extra time will immediately follow. Should neither team break the deadlock after 120 minutes, the semifinal would be settled by a penalty shootout. Lionel Messi #10 of Argentina take a penalty kick This scenario would significantly increase the physical demands on both squads, especially considering each side has already endured exhausting knockout encounters during the tournament. The eventual winner of the shootout would advance to face Spain, while the defeated side would move into the third-place match against France. DateCompetitionH2H ResultNovember 12, 2005International FriendlyArgentina 2-3 EnglandJune 7, 2002FIFA World Cup (Group Stage)Argen
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