Reflecting on 1998 and Looking Ahead to England's Semi-Final
It has been 28 years since Argentina ended my World Cup journey at France 1998, and the memory still resonates deeply.
I vividly recall their players celebrating beside us as both teams awaited their buses after our intense last-16 match. We had come very close to victory but ultimately lost in a penalty shootout, sending us home.
As captain, it was a difficult moment not only personally but also because our team was exceptional, and I believed we had a genuine chance to make a significant impact on the global stage.
I hold similar feelings about the current England squad as they prepare for Wednesday's semi-final in Atlanta (20:00 BST), with an opportunity to transform their futures.
They stand two wins away from eternal recognition, and facing Argentina again adds an extra layer of intensity to this remarkable event.
The World Cup encounters with Argentina carry a special significance due to our historic rivalry and the dramatic, controversial quarter-final losses in 1986 and 1998, the latter of which I experienced firsthand.
It becomes even more thrilling with a final spot on the line, especially against Lionel Messi, arguably the greatest player ever, who has yet to face England.
This matchup is exactly the kind of contest we wanted, and I am confident England can prevail, regardless of the manner.
Our players just have to make sure they land on the right side of the result this time, and ensure they are not talking like me about what could or should have been, 28 years from now.
Memories of France 1998: Owen's Goal and Beckham's Red Card
Thinking about Wednesday’s game takes me back to Saint-Étienne in 1998, one of the most memorable and widely discussed matches I have played.
That night at Stade Geoffroy Guichard featured numerous key moments: Michael Owen’s remarkable goal, Argentina’s outstanding free-kick, David Beckham’s red card, us playing 75 minutes with ten men, Sol Campbell’s disallowed goal, and ultimately the heartbreak of losing on penalties.
It was an extraordinary evening with everything happening, and although I know I should have moved on by now, I still believe the best team did not win.
What occurred then serves as a cautionary tale for England now, as these matches can see tempers flare and influence the outcome.
I would not be surprised if another red card is issued this time, but I am somewhat concerned about the refereeing and how VAR might affect the game.
There has been a noticeable shift in the narrative around referees and VAR throughout the tournament, with some unusual decisions, including ones favoring Argentina.
For example, the disallowed goal for Egypt against Argentina in the last 16, ruled out due to a foul at the opposite end of the pitch, was astonishing. I hope this tie remains free from similar controversies.
The atmosphere will be intense, and playing with a full squad will already be challenging, so maintaining composure will be crucial.
I know how hard it is not to react in the heat of the battle but we cannot afford to do anything rash that might give the referee or VAR the chance to get involved.
Key Players and Tactical Battles
Argentina have not displayed consistently great football en route to this stage but have scored some exceptional goals. They are experienced, savvy, and the reigning champions.
While not as strong as when they won four years ago, they excel at finding ways to secure results when necessary.
Having Messi leading their attack is a significant advantage. Argentina’s play revolves around him, and they always seek his position upon regaining possession.
Stopping Messi is a challenge. Assigning a player like Djed Spence to mark him man-to-man is one possibility, but England will likely maintain the formation used in their previous six matches.
Instead of a dedicated marker, one or two players will probably close down Messi to limit his space when he has the ball.
There will be numerous battles across the pitch, and England must do more than just contain Messi to succeed. However, neutralizing him would greatly improve their chances.
On the other hand, England boast their own stars. Harry Kane has been outstanding, and Jude Bellingham is enjoying a tournament of a lifetime.
Both Bellingham and Messi have earned four man-of-the-match awards so far, a remarkable feat.
They are contenders for player of the tournament and are both capable of deciding matches. Whichever team reaches the final, these players will likely play pivotal roles.
I am confident England will advance. I believe we can outmatch Argentina and create more problems for them than they will for us, though I do not expect an easy game.
None of England’s matches at this World Cup have been straightforward or comfortable, aside from perhaps the second half against Croatia, and I anticipate this match will be similarly demanding.
I will be present again, co-commentating with Guy Mowbray, and my advice to viewers is to prepare for an exhilarating evening that will undoubtedly be a challenging journey.
Alan Shearer was speaking to 's Chris Bevan
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