Argentina star backtracks over brutal England World Cup claim before semi-final

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| Deputy Sports Editor Published July 14, 2026 6:26pm Updated July 14, 2026 6:26pm Argentina World Cup star Alexis Mac Allister (Picture: Getty) Argentina star Alexis Mac Allister insists he is ‘not surprised’ England have reached the World Cup semi-finals despite downplaying their chances before the tournament. England face defending champions Argentina in Atlanta on Wednesday night for a place in Sunday’s World Cup final.

Asked by ex-Liverpool and England midfielder Jamie Redknapp who he viewed as the top contenders to win the World Cup, Mac Allister said: ‘Spain, France are really strong. But for us, maybe.’ Redknapp then said: ‘But you’ve not mentioned England… come on, give us some hope!’ England preparing for their World Cup semi-final (Picture: Getty) Mac Allister responded with a grin: ‘You think you have a chance?’ While those comments may have been slightly tongue-in-cheek, Mac Allister snubbed England back in October when asked to identify the top contenders to win the World Cup.

They have a clear idea of play, but we always trust in ourselves.’ Mac Allister’s comments were put to him on the eve of Argentina’s World Cup semi-final against England and the 27-year-old insisted he ‘really respects’ Thomas Tuchel’s side. These discounted buys have you covered In The Mixer’s World Cup special Everything you need to know about the World Cup – England updates, the games to watch and stories you missed – in five minutes, at 1pm, every day.