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World Cup semifinals: Four previous champions, a bitter rivalry, Mbappé vs Yamal and Messi vs Kane
AP News • • general
Key Points:
- The 2024 World Cup semifinals feature four previous champions and the top four FIFA-ranked teams: Argentina, Spain, France, and England, with matchups of France vs. Spain and England vs. Argentina.
- England and Argentina's semifinal revives a historic and intense rivalry marked by political tensions and controversial World Cup encounters, including Maradona's "Hand of God" goal in 1986.
- France seeks revenge against Spain after losing to them at the 2022 European Championship, with France entering the semifinals as the tournament's most impressive team led by Kylian Mbappé.
- The Golden Boot race is highly competitive, led by Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé with eight goals each, followed closely by Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, and Ousmane Dembélé.
- Lionel Messi, considered one of the greatest of all time, is playing in likely his last World Cup and could cement his legacy by leading Argentina to a second consecutive title, surpassing Maradona’s record.
