Argentina Considers Midfield Shakeup Ahead of World Cup Semi Against England

Argentina, the reigning 2022 World Cup champions, are preparing for their semi-final match against England, scheduled for Wednesday. The team is five days away from potentially securing a historic consecutive World Cup title, a feat not achieved in 60 years. The main focus in Argentina is the uncertain status of Rodrigo De Paul, one of coach Lionel Scaloni's key midfielders and a close friend of Lionel Messi. De Paul has started the last four matches but is the only player whose position is in question, having been substituted in recent games against Egypt and Switzerland.

If De Paul is benched, Gio Simeone or Nico Gonzalez are likely to replace him, with Gonzalez possibly playing as a left midfielder in a 4-4-2 formation. Scaloni is also deciding between Nahuel Molina and Gonzalo Montiel for the right-back spot, with Molina expected to start. De Paul expressed calmness ahead of the match, emphasizing his passion for such important games and the desire to bring joy to Argentine fans. Montiel highlighted the team's focus on themselves and their preparation to counter England's fast-wing players.

Scaloni plans to announce the starting lineup only on match day. The probable Argentine lineup includes Emiliano Martinez in goal; Molina or Montiel, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, and Nicolas Tagliafico in defense; De Paul or Simeone/Gonzalez, Leandro Paredes, Alexis Mac Allister, and Enzo Fernandez in midfield; with Lionel Messi and Julian Alvarez leading the attack.