Scaloni plays down Argentina and England history: ‘A football game and that is all’

• Head coach expects to face ‘a very tough opponent’ in semi-finals

• Sides meet for first time since 2005 with World Cup final spot on the line

The Argentina forward José López said he and his teammates will “leave our lives on the field” in what will be a tantalising World Cup semi-final against England. Argentina booked their place in the last four with a 3-1 win against Switzerland and it means one of football’s most glamorous, highly charged fixtures will take place for the first time since 2005.

López had played a bit-part role in this tournament until emerging from the bench and providing the pass from which Julián Álvarez scored in the second half of extra time. Lautaro Martínez sealed the win later to set the stage for a tumultuous clash in Atlanta on Wednesday.

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