Rivals with a long-standing history reunite in the 2026 World Cup semifinals

According to China's Xinhua News Agency, Argentina aims to become the first team to successfully defend their title since Brazil in 1962. Meanwhile, France is just one victory away from reaching their third consecutive World Cup final.

In contrast, England has not appeared in a final since winning on home soil in 1966, while Spain is aiming for their second world championship in history.

The semifinal in Atlanta will revive one of the most storied rivalries in World Cup history.

Argentina defeated England in the classic 1986 quarterfinal, where the "Golden Boy" Diego Maradona scored two historic goals, including the "Hand of God." At the 1998 World Cup, Argentina again eliminated England on penalties in the round of 16 after David Beckham was sent off for retaliating against Diego Simeone.

However, Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni dismissed the idea that past memories will affect the match on July 15. The manager said: "England is a strong team led by a coach I greatly admire. But in the end, it's just a football match. Nothing more."

Meanwhile, the other semifinal in Dallas promises to be a fascinating tactical battle.

So far, France has won all six matches, scoring 16 goals and conceding only twice, while Spain has conceded just one goal throughout the tournament.

Kylian Mbappe continues to be the spearhead of France's attack, supported by Ousmane Dembele, as Didier Deschamps' side aims for their third World Cup title in history.

Spain has advanced more quietly, but no less solidly. After a draw with Cape Verde in their opening match, Luis de la Fuente's team has accelerated through each game thanks to their superior ball control and a disciplined defense.

Spain and France know each other well after numerous encounters in recent years. Spain beat France 2-1 in the EURO 2024 semifinals, then won 5-4 in last year's UEFA Nations League semifinals. However, France insists those results are no longer relevant.

France center-back Ibrahima Konate said: "You can't fear any opponent. Spain is an excellent team with many players who can make a difference."

Much of Spain's attacking power still rests on the shoulders of prodigy Lamine Yamal, who turns 19 on July 13.

Yamal has only scored one goal and has no assists, but his runs down the right flank have repeatedly disrupted opposition defenses and created space for teammates.

Yamal believes Spain's ball control can neutralize France's counter-attacking threat. The winger said: "We are not afraid of anyone. Clearly, we are two great teams, world-class national sides, and for me, France is one of the strongest."

The two winners from the semifinals will meet in the 2026 World Cup final at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19.