Argentina vs England World Cup Semifinal: Odds, Picks & Best Bets

The second 2026 World Cup semifinal takes place on Wednesday between Argentina and England, with both nations looking to face Spain in the final on Sunday.

These two rivals haven’t met in a competitive fixture since the 2002 World Cup and with plenty of history both on and off the pitch, this is a must not miss match. But what are the best betting angles? Let’s take a closer look at this intriguing encounter.

Argentina breezed into the knockout stages having won all three group games with ease. After beating Algeria 3-0, Austria 2-0 and Jordan 3-1, it looked as though the reigning champions were the nation to be worried about.

Yet during the knockouts, Lionel Scaloni’s side have been rather disappointing. Cape Verde took them to extra time, before Egypt led 2-0 and threw away their lead. Switzerland also frustrated Argentina, who once again needed extra-time to get over the line.

Despite turning 39 this summer, Lionel Messi has been their saviour once more with eight goals as he looks to secure the Golden Boot.

England’s path has been similar. Although more impressive in the knockout stage, especially beating Mexico in their own back yard, but performances against Ghana, DR Congo and Norway have showcased there’s still work for Thomas Tuchel and his coaching staff if England are to win their first World Cup since 1966.

Argentina vs England Predictions

So, who’s going to come out on top? It’s an incredibly difficult match to call. Surprisingly, Argentina head into this as the underdogs at +300, with the market heavily favoring England to qualify and meet Spain in the final.

Yet despite Argentina not impressing in their last few matches, it’s hard to write them off. This is a nation that has won back-to-back Copa America titles as well as the last World Cup. Lionel Messi will be the center of attention, but the likes of Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez remain threats to England’s less than convincing defense.

But England also has plenty of firepower of their own. Both Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane come into this semifinal having scored six goals each, and Argentina will need to mastermind a plan to keep both of them quiet in Atlanta - which is easier said than done.

And then, of course, there’s the history between these two nations. Having not faced each other in a long time, that could only add more fuel to the fire and there could be plenty of tackles, cards and drama throughout the match. Yet amongst all that chaos, there are some excellent betting opportunities worth backing.

Argentina vs England Betting Tips & Best Bets

All odds taken from bet365 Sportsbook at 09:00 CA time on Wednesday, 15 July 2026.

Both teams to score yes at +110

In the air conditioned Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the heat won’t be a problem for either nation and that means we could see a much faster paced match.

Neither defense has looked impressive, and both haven’t kept a clean sheet since round two. In fact, although Argentina are the current top goalscorers at this World Cup, they have conceded five in their last three matches.

Uncharacteristically, their defense hasn’t been at their best all tournament and England will look to expose that. However, the same can be said for Thomas Tuchel’s men. DR Congo, Mexico and Norway found a way through, and therefore keeping Messi quiet will be a tough task.

Both teams to find the back of the next is priced at +110 and that is our first tip for this semifinal.

Cristian Romero to score anytime at +1500

However, our second is a much bigger price. We are focusing on Argentina’s center back Cristian Romero to score, who has already found the back of the net this tournament from a set piece.

Argentina have looked strong from corners, where England’s defending from them has been suspect, to say the least.

Romero scored six goals for Tottenham last season, and his aerial presence in the box may be difficult to deal with. At +1500, Argentina’s towering defender is worth a bet to find the back of the net in this semifinal.