England head coach Thomas Tuchel says he is not feeling the pressure of history as the Three Lions prepare to face Argentina in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Wednesday.
England are aiming to reach their first World Cup final since winning the tournament on home soil in 1966. Standing in their way are defending champions Argentina, led by veteran captain Lionel Messi.
Tuchel insisted his focus remains on the challenge ahead rather than England’s long wait for another World Cup final.
“I don’t feel a burden,” Tuchel told reporters on Tuesday.
“We feel the tension and will be nervous, but that is normal.”
England Backed by Bellingham and Kane
England have enjoyed an impressive tournament, with Jude Bellingham and captain Harry Kane leading the attack.
Both players have scored six goals and played key roles in the Three Lions’ run to the last four.
Tuchel praised the attitude of his squad ahead of the high-stakes encounter.
“What I like is that I feel the players are really competitive, hungry and excited to play this match,” he said.
Messi Set for First Meeting with England
The semi-final will also mark a historic occasion for Argentina captain Lionel Messi.
Despite his long and successful international career, the 39-year-old will face England for the first time at senior level.
The fixture adds another chapter to one of football’s most famous rivalries, with both nations chasing a place in the World Cup final.
Tuchel acknowledged the significance of the occasion but believes both teams will be motivated by the opportunity to reach the tournament’s biggest stage.
“The two shirts are just iconic,” he said.
“There are historic matches and iconic moments. Everyone recognises the shirts and the players straight away.”
The winner of Wednesday’s semi-final will advance to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, where Spain await after defeating France 2-0 in the other last-four clash.
