England will face Argentina in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Wednesday evening. The match kicks off at 8pm BST at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. This marks only the fourth time England have reached the semi-finals of a World Cup. After a dramatic quarter-final victory over Norway, secured by a Jude Bellingham masterclass in extra time, Thomas Tuchel's side now meets one of football's fiercest rivals. England have not faced Argentina in a competitive match since 2002, though they played a friendly in 2005.
What time does England vs Argentina start and finish?
The game kicks off at 3pm local time in Atlanta, which is five hours behind the UK. For UK viewers, that means an 8pm BST start. If the match ends within 90 minutes, it should finish by 10pm. However, if extra time and penalties are required, the game could last until around 11pm.
What TV channel is the semi-final on?
The match will be broadcast live on BBC One and streamed on BBC iPlayer. Coverage and build-up begin at 7pm BST.
What are the odds for England vs Argentina?
According to Oddschecker, England have a 37 percent chance of winning, while Argentina have a 35 percent chance. The odds are as follows: England win – 9/5, Argentina win – 21/10, draw in normal time – 2/1.
England and Argentina head-to-head history
The two nations have played 14 times since their first meeting in 1951. England have won six times, Argentina have won three, and there have been five draws. The rivalry is defined by iconic moments, such as Diego Maradona's 'Hand of God' goal in 1986.
England's World Cup 2026 fixtures and schedule
If England win the semi-final, they will play in the final on Sunday July 19 at 8pm BST, broadcast on both BBC and ITV. If they lose, they will play in the third-place match on Saturday July 18 at 10pm BST on BBC One.
England's World Cup 2026 results so far
- England 4 – 2 Croatia
- England 0 – 0 Ghana
- Panama 0 – 2 England
- England 2 – 1 DR Congo
- Mexico 2 – 3 England
- Norway 1 – 2 England
Will there be a bank holiday if England win?
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has hinted at a public holiday if England win the World Cup. Friday July 24 has been earmarked as a potential bank holiday.
