Paul Scholes has raised concerns over England’s ability to handle the pressure of a World Cup semi-final after the Three Lions booked their spot in Qatar with a dramatic 2-1 win over Norway on 4 December 2022.
What did Scholes say?
Speaking ahead of Wednesday’s blockbuster against Argentina, Scholes told reporters that Argentina’s recent tournament pedigree gives them a clear psychological advantage. “I think the path for England and Argentina have been very similar. I don’t think either team has played that well, but they’ve got through games.
The biggest advantage for Argentina is that they’ve done it before and they know how to win these big games in tournaments. We’re yet to prove that.”
Why does Scholes think Argentina hold the edge?
Scholes pointed to Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph and their experience in knockout football as decisive factors. He added that England must now show they can replicate that level under Thomas Tuchel, who has reshaped the side since taking charge in September 2021.
“This will be lively, this will be chaos. This could be 4-3 either way, there will be yellow and red cards. If Argentina lose they’ll all kick off, that’s absolutely guaranteed. And if you lose to them, it’s horrible.”
What’s at stake for England?
A win would send England to their first World Cup final since 1966, a landmark 56 years in the making. The clash with Argentina marks the first semi-final between the two nations in World Cup history, with both sides arriving in Doha on the back of nervy but ultimately successful quarter-finals.
England’s route included a nervy 3-0 win over Senegal in the Round of 16, while Argentina saw off the Netherlands on penalties after a 2-2 draw. The tie is set to be the most intense of the tournament so far, with police presence boosted in anticipation of volatile scenes.
What comes next?
Scholes also tipped France as a potential final hurdle, stating: “I think we can beat Argentina and Spain, but I’m not sure we can beat France. I think we need Spain to beat France.”
With kick-off scheduled for 22:00 local time on 14 December 2022 at Lusail Stadium, the stage is set for a night of high drama. England’s young squad faces its sternest test yet under Tuchel, who has overseen a cautious but effective rebuild since taking charge.
Tuchel’s side has conceded just three goals in six World Cup games, but Scholes warns that Argentina’s tournament nous could expose any remaining frailties. The ex-Midfielder believes chaos will reign, with the tie likely to swing on individual moments rather than sustained quality.
Argentina arrive as slight favourites, buoyed by their 2021 Copa América and 2022 World Cup triumphs. England, meanwhile, must silence the doubters and silence the noise if they are to rewrite history.