The opening minutes of the match witnessed intense competition between the two teams, with strong performance and physical challenges in the midfield area, causing the game to stop several times due to some violent tackles and players' protests against the referee's decisions, in addition to providing medical assistance to a number of players after minor injuries.

Despite the two teams exchanging attacking attempts and seeking to score the opening goal, the defensive solidity and tactical discipline from both sides limited the danger of opportunities in front of the goals, leading to the first half ending in a goalless draw, with the second half set to decide which team qualifies for the 2026 World Cup final.

England entered the match with a lineup that included: Jordan Pickford in goal; in defense, Djed Spence, John Stones, Marc Guéhi, and Reece James; the midfield consisted of Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson, Jude Bellingham, and Morgan Rogers; while the attack was led by the duo Harry Kane and Anthony Gordon.

In contrast, Argentina started the match with a lineup consisting of: Emiliano Martínez in goal; in defense, Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martínez, and Nicolás Tagliafico; the midfield included Leandro Paredes, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister, and Giuliano Simeone; and the attack was led by the duo Lionel Messi and Julián Álvarez.

England is seeking to secure a spot in the final match, while Argentina aims to reach the final for the second consecutive time, after winning the previous edition, in a highly anticipated encounter considered one of the tournament's standout matches.