England and Argentina went into the halftime break locked at 0-0 after a tense and tactical opening 45 minutes in their battle for a place in the World Cup final against Spain.
Argentina controlled much of the ball throughout the first half, enjoying 62 percent possession compared to England’s 38 percent. Lionel Scaloni’s side patiently dictated the tempo and looked to stretch the English defence, but Thomas Tuchel’s well-organised team remained compact and denied the South Americans any clear-cut opportunities.
Despite Argentina’s dominance in possession, chances were at a premium. The Albiceleste managed just two shots, with one effort blocked and another drifting off target, while England registered only one attempt, which also failed to test the goalkeeper. Neither side managed a shot on target before the interval, underlining the disciplined defensive performances on both ends.
The corner count remained even at one apiece, while Argentina were twice caught offside as England’s backline executed their defensive line effectively.
The contest also became increasingly physical as the half wore on. England defender Elliot Anderson was shown the first yellow card of the match in the 37th minute for a foul on Lionel Messi, before Argentina centre-back Lisandro Martínez entered the referee’s notebook five minutes later after a late challenge on Rogers.
Although Argentina enjoyed more control of the game, England’s resilience ensured the South Americans could not translate their possession into meaningful chances. With a place in the final at stake, the second half promises to be far more open as both teams search for the breakthrough that could decide the semifinal.
