With the World Cup semi-finals just days away, an in-depth statistical comparison of the four remaining nations – Argentina, England, France, and Spain – provides a fascinating insight into their journeys to this stage. As all teams have played six matches, but some have gone to extra time, these statistics have been adjusted to reflect performance per 90 minutes, offering a truer picture of their capabilities ahead of the crucial clashes.
France, the two-time World Cup winners, have emerged as the most formidable attacking force. They lead in average goals scored, share the top spot for shots taken, and boast the highest Expected Goals (xG) per 90 minutes. In contrast, while reigning champions Argentina have scored the most goals overall (17), their clinical conversion rate of 18% stands out. European champions Spain, despite matching France's 110 shots, have converted far fewer, scoring just 11 goals compared to France's 16.
Defensively, Spain has been exceptionally robust, conceding their first goal of the tournament only in their quarter-final victory against Belgium. France also demonstrates strong defensive credentials, having let in just two goals across their six matches. The upcoming semi-final between France and Spain is therefore set to be a compelling contest between an unstoppable attacking force and an immovable defensive object.
England, under manager Thomas Tuchel, has shown less creativity in shot generation compared to the other semi-finalists. However, their clinical finishing, particularly from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane, has ensured they've averaged more than two goals per game. A significant advantage for England lies in their aerial prowess; they have been the most successful in open-play crossing among the final four, converting one in every four crosses into a successful pass to a teammate. This is reflected in their joint-highest four headed goals and 24 headed shots in the tournament, a statistic that could prove crucial against an Argentinian side with the lowest aerial duel success rate among the semi-finalists.
The other semi-final, featuring England and Argentina, promises more goals. Both sides have conceded six goals, with England giving up the most chances and Argentina being the least effective at preventing them. Argentina's talismanic captain, Lionel Messi, remains a key threat, having delivered more through balls (15) than any other player. However, the South American side has also been outrun by opponents in every game and has the lowest pressing intensity among the four teams, a stark contrast to Spain, who have been the hardest-working in terms of running, sprinting, and pressing.
Spain's industriousness is further highlighted by their tournament-leading possession average of 66% and a joint-best passing accuracy of 90.4% with Argentina. While all four teams are proficient passers, Spain's commitment to ball retention and high-intensity play sets them apart. As the semi-finals loom, these intricate details could very well dictate which two nations will compete for the ultimate glory this weekend.