‘The pressure is on Argentina’: England’s Marc Guehi ahead of FIFA World Cup semifinal

England defender Marc Guehi believes the Three Lions can play with freedom in Wednesday’s FIFA World Cup semifinal against Argentina, insisting the burden of expectation rests squarely on the defending champions.

England take on Lionel Scaloni’s unbeaten side at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium for a place in the World Cup final, where Spain await after eliminating France.

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“There isn’t pressure on us,” Guehi said, according to ESPN. “What’s the pressure? The onus is on them. They’re the world champions. They need to come out and defend their title. There’s no pressure on us at all.

“Everyone is excited. It’s a huge occasion with world-class players, and everyone is relishing the opportunity.”

England determined to keep emotions in check

The clash rekindles one of football’s fiercest rivalries, shaped by memorable World Cup meetings, including Diego Maradona’s infamous “Hand of God” goal in 1986 and David Beckham’s sending-off in the 1998 Round of 16. The fixture also carries historical significance because of the Falkland Islands dispute.

But defender Ezri Konsa said England are determined not to let the occasion distract them.

“We just have to focus on ourselves,” Konsa said. “Try to forget the history behind it, not get too caught up in it, and go out there and play the football we know we’re capable of.”

England reached the last four after coming from behind to beat Norway 2-1 after extra time. Despite head coach Thomas Tuchel publicly criticising the team’s performance, Konsa insisted the dressing room remains united.

“We have a great group. We’re all together. There’s been no issues.

“In this tournament, mindset is everything. There will always be outside noise, but you have to block it out. We’ve been around long enough to know how to deal with that.”

Messi one threat among many, says Guehi

England’s backline will have the daunting task of containing Lionel Messi, who has scored eight goals in the tournament and is level with France captain Kylian Mbappe in the Golden Boot race.

However, Guehi warned against focusing solely on the Argentine captain.

“He’s one of the greatest players in the game, so of course we’ll do everything we can to stop him,” Guehi said.

“But Argentina have quality all over the pitch. It’s important that we stay focused on ourselves, stick to our game plan and make sure we execute it.”

Argentina head into the semifinal having won all six of their matches and are aiming to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the World Cup title.

England, meanwhile, are chasing only the second World Cup final appearance in their history after their triumph in 1966, with Tuchel’s side looking to continue the nation’s impressive run of deep finishes at major tournaments.