​England face off against Argentina for the first time in 21 years with a spot in the 2026 World Cup final at stake.Thomas Tuchel is only two matches away from completing the task he was brought in to do, add a second star above the Three Lions’ badge and bring the World Cup home for England, while Lionel Messi and Argentina are aiming to win back-to-back World Cup titles.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementHere are five key battles we think will decide the outcome of this huge World Cup semi-final clash…It has not been the tournament many expected from Julian Alvarez, after a breakthrough World Cup in Qatar four years ago, with talk over his future at Atletico Madrid also hanging over the 26-year-old. However, Alvarez showed his ability to change a game against Switzerland, and the England defence will need to be switched on at all times if they are to halt him. The forward notched his first goal of the tournament against Switzerland with a stunning strike, and will be looking to add to his tally against the Three Lions.After starting on the bench for the first group stage match against Croatia, meanwhile, Marc Guehi has been a stalwart in the England defence for the remainder of the tournament, playing every minute. The 26-year-old Manchester City star has been the bedrock for Tuchel’s team in the centre of defence, thanks to his speed, strength and ability to win aerial duels. Guehi has formed a very solid partnership with Ezri Konsa this tournament, and his performance will be key if Alverez’s impact is to be limited.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementEngland’s record goalscorer faces off against his former club team-mate in what is definitely going to be a physical affair between the pair. Cristian Romero recovered from a knee injury suffered late in the Premier League season to make the tournament in north America, and he has been a rock at the back for Argentina so far. The 28-year-old has been a dependable figure when his side have come under significant pressure, and his goal against Egypt also set his side on the path to one of the World Cup’s great comeback victories.One of the stars of tournament so far, Harry Kane has been England’s saviour on more than one occasion throughout his time as Three Lions captain. This World Cup, Kane’s six goals have him in the race for the golden boot. Braces against Croatia and DR Congo were his most notable contributions, but his performances against Mexico and Panama in difficult circumstances show just how valuable the 32-year-old is. But Romero knows him well, and he will try to wear Kane down with his physicality and aggressiveness.The two faces of their national teams. Messi and Jude Bellingham have both lit up this tournament, and are without a doubt the star men for their countries. Fresh from turning 39, Messi has been on a mission this World Cup to retain the title for his nation, scoring eight times. He has become the tournament’s all-time record goalscorer in the pro