Argentina stars send England warning ahead of World Cup semifinal

De Paul, Mac Allister and Montiel spoke to the media ahead of Argentina’s World Cup semifinal against England.

Amanda Perobelli

Atlanta Update: Jul 14th, 2026 12:53 EDT

The countdown to Argentina’s World Cup semifinal against England is almost over. Atlanta will host one of the tournament’s marquee matchups, and while England prepares for the showdown, the reigning world champions continue their title defense with huge attention surrounding them, perhaps more than ever. Speaking to reporters at Argentina’s training base, Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister and Gonzalo Montiel shared their thoughts on the game.

Rodrigo De Paul

On the fans’ support: “We really feed off the energy our fans give us. It’s a unique game, a World Cup semifinal against a great opponent. We can’t wait to play.”

On the motivation of a semifinal: “Everyone knows these are the games I love the most. They motivate me. They have something special that brings out so many emotions. I’m enjoying every moment. I’ve never faced England before, so I’m experiencing this with a lot of excitement and emotion. I’m also anxious because I want tomorrow to get here.”

On possible changes to the lineup: “The coach hasn’t announced the team yet. He won’t do that until tomorrow, so we’re staying calm.”

On whether playing England is just another game: “The message inside the team and to the outside world has been the same. It’s a soccer game, made special because it’s a World Cup semifinal. We hope everyone comes to enjoy the spectacle, and that Argentinians leave happy after the game.”

On outside opinions: “I don’t pay attention to other people’s opinions. Soccer is great because it creates debate. We’re very happy and very calm with the World Cup we’ve had and the process we’ve been through.”

Alexis Mac Allister

On what the game means: “It means a lot because it’s a World Cup semifinal. Everyone wants to play in games like this and reach the final. We love our country and our national team. I don’t think it’s anything extra special for me, although maybe it helps that I know these players and face them every weekend.”

On England: “They have top-quality players who compete for major clubs and have been in games like this before. Having played in a World Cup semifinal before is an advantage, but it doesn’t guarantee anything.”

On drawing inspiration from Maradona: “Trying to do what Diego did is impossible. Maybe only Leo can do that. Different clips have been circulating on social media recently, especially over the last few days. They help because they remind us of what Diego meant. Diego is a symbol for our country, and hopefully we can achieve something like what that team did in 1986.”

On Argentina’s style of play: “We don’t like playing without the ball. We don’t feel comfortable that way. We hope that doesn’t happen in this game. We always play the same way and hope it works as well as possible.”

Montiel

Gonzalo Montiel

On Argentina’s approach: “We’re focused on ourselves. We’re preparing for a World Cup semifinal, and we’re ready for it. The dream is always there. Like every Argentine, we believe. We’re one step away from another World Cup final.”

On England’s style: “We’ve analyzed them. We know they’re a difficult opponent who plays with two wingers. We’ve been working on limiting our mistakes as much as possible. We’ve studied them, but the most important thing is playing our own game.”

On another World Cup semifinal: “Playing in a semifinal is a dream and a privilege, especially wearing this jersey. It’s amazing to be playing another semifinal. We’re very happy, but we’re taking it one step at a time and looking to keep going.”

On England’s players: “They have great players, but beyond the individual names they’re a team. Our focus is on ourselves first. Obviously they’re outstanding players.”

On criticism: “Games are decided on the field. Talking outside the field is just talk.”

On suffering during games: “The opponent plays too, and there are moments when you have to dig in and suffer. We’ve been through those moments, and today we’re in the semifinal.”