After England’s victory over Mexico, one observer described the team’s display as the best he had seen since 1966. ‘Energy and positive play at last, from the whole team: the best I’ve seen since, er… let me think… 1966,’ wrote a columnist in the New Statesman’s 8 July issue. The crowds, he noted, had been ‘brilliant’, with families and dancing fans from all nations.
But ahead of the World Cup semi-final against Argentina this week, there is a note of caution. The Evening Standard reported that Thomas Tuchel, the England manager, must be careful after a warning from Jude Bellingham, and that it is vital any disagreements are resolved before kick-off. The match will be a historic first: Lionel Messi, widely regarded as the greatest ever player, has never faced England in his two-decade international career. He reacted to the prospect of meeting the ‘powerhouse’ England side, according to the Evening Standard.
“England face Argentina in World Cup semi-final after a performance hailed as best since 1966.”
England’s run to the last four has been marked by a surge in national confidence. The performance against Mexico, where the team advanced, was a turning point. Now they stand one step from the final.
