Argentina and England are set to face each other in the FIFA World Cup 2026, aiming to secure a back-to-back semifinal berth. Lionel Scaloni, who has not tinkered with the playing XI for most of the tournament, made a surprise change in the lineup. Rodrigo De Paul, who has been one of the mainstays in the midfield, has been rested.

De Paul has been one of the pillars of La Albiceleste’s midfield. But, for this crucial match at Atlanta Stadium, the manager decided to adjust the tactical setup to withstand England’s attacking pressure.

Simeone, who primarily plays as a winger, will help the defending champions to spread the attack on the flanks. De Paul, on the other hand, is a box-to-box midfielder and would not help the defending champions to attack on the flanks.

How Will Simeone’s Inclusion Help Argentina?

Giuliano Simeone’s inclusion gives Argentina added energy and directness down the right flank. The Atletico Madrid winger is renowned for his relentless pressing, pace, and willingness to track back, qualities that could prove invaluable against England’s disciplined backline. His ability to stretch play and make incisive runs behind defenders offers Lionel Scaloni another attacking outlet alongside Lionel Messi and Julian Alvarez.

The 23-year-old has featured sparingly at the FIFA World Cup, making his only appearance in Argentina’s 3-1 group-stage victory over Jordan, where he started on the right wing and played 71 minutes. Despite limited opportunities in the tournament, Simeone has already made a positive impression for the national team, scoring twice in 14 appearances across all competitions.

If handed a starting berth in the semifinal, Simeone will have the chance to announce himself on football’s biggest stage and chase his first-ever FIFA World Cup goal in a high-stakes clash against England.