Jakarta, ThedailyID — Argentina could make a major tactical adjustment when it faces England in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinal on Wednesday, July 16, at Atlanta Stadium.
Head coach Lionel Scaloni is reportedly considering changes to his starting lineup as Argentina prepares for one of its toughest tests of the tournament.
According to Argentine outlet Olé, Scaloni spent the team’s final training session in Kansas City testing different formations ahead of the clash.
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) said the session focused on ball possession, pressing after losing possession, and attacking progression before ending with a small-sided match.
However, the federation did not reveal the tactical setup or the players involved in the experiments.
Argentina has started every match at the 2026 World Cup with a 4-4-2 formation, although Scaloni has occasionally switched to a 4-3-3 during games.
This time, however, England presents a much greater challenge than Argentina’s previous opponents, which included Algeria, Austria, Jordan, Cape Verde, Egypt, and Switzerland.
As a result, Scaloni could switch to a 5-3-2 formation, a system he has used in selected high-profile matches.
He previously deployed the formation against the Netherlands in the 2022 World Cup quarterfinals. Argentina eventually won the match 4-3 on penalties after a 2-2 draw.
During the latest training session, Scaloni reportedly tested Nahuel Molina at right wing-back before replacing him with Giuliano Simeone.
The back three featured Nicolás Otamendi, Cristian Romero, and Lisandro Martínez, while Nicolás Tagliafico occupied the left flank.
Meanwhile, Alexis Mac Allister, Leandro Paredes, and Enzo Fernández formed the midfield trio behind forwards Julián Álvarez and Lionel Messi.
If Scaloni adopts the new system, Argentina will enter the semifinal with its boldest tactical gamble of the tournament.
