England defender, Marc Guehi, says pressure is on defending champions Argentina ahead of Wednesday’s FIFA World Cup semi-final, saying the Three Lions are fully prepared for one of international football’s biggest fixtures.
England face Argentina in Atlanta seeking a place in their first FIFA World Cup final since winning the tournament in 1966, while Lionel Scaloni’s side are aiming to defend the title they won in Qatar four years ago.
“The pressure is on them, they are the world champions,” Guehi said before the last-four clash.
The Crystal Palace centre-back said England remain focused despite the long-standing football rivalry between the two nations.
“It’s the game of your life. You have to do what you can for your country,” he added.
England secured their place in the semi-finals with a 2-1 extra-time victory over Norway, while Argentina advanced as they continued their title defence.
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England manager, Thomas Tuchel, also rejected suggestions of a rift with midfielder Jude Bellingham following comments made after the quarter-final victory over Norway.
Tuchel had criticised his team’s display despite the win, saying England “got lucky” and made life difficult for themselves. When asked about those remarks, Bellingham replied: “Yeah well, whatever.”
The England coach insisted there was no disagreement between the pair.
“I’m a football coach and I try to demand the very best and not settle for lower standards,” Tuchel said.
“I was in a mixed feeling. I have it completely out of my system. We framed it. We debriefed it as a group and we’re all focused now. Full steam ahead.”
Addressing Bellingham’s response, Tuchel added: “It’s a post-match interview. We came from the same mindset as being competitive and wanting to win. He scored two goals and was exhausted because he gave everything.
“The reporter didn’t tell him I said he’s a world-class player. There’s no issue. We’re competing for the same goal.”
