Goalkeepers Emiliano Martinez and Jordan Pickford will take center stage when Argentina meets England in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals in Atlanta.
Both teams advanced after grueling quarterfinal matches that required extra time. England defeated Norway 2-1, while Argentina beat Switzerland 3-1.
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Each goalkeeper has conceded six goals across six tournament matches. Pickford has made 14 saves, compared to eight for Martinez.
Martinez, who surpassed Ubaldo Fillol's record for most World Cup appearances by an Argentine goalkeeper with 14, overcame a finger injury before the tournament.
“I think my time will come. I need to help them a lot more.
They're saving me in several games, and it's my turn to do it,” said Martinez, the Aston Villa shot-stopper.
Martinez has a strong penalty record, having helped Argentina win four shootouts in major tournaments since 2021.
Pickford set an England record by making his 18th World Cup appearance against Norway. He faces his first career match against Lionel Messi.
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“We all know how good Messi is, but we also know how good Argentina are,” said Pickford.
Former goalkeeper Chris Kirkland, who played with both players early in his career at Sheffield Wednesday and Preston North End, shared his thoughts on their development.
“He was a good goalkeeper, no doubt about that, but if someone had asked me at that time, would he have gone on and done what he's done?
Look, I think he's certainly exceeded all expectations,” Kirkland said.
Outfield players have also been crucial. Jude Bellingham leads England with six goals after scoring twice against Norway.
Argentina's Lionel Messi has eight goals entering the match.
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The winner in Atlanta will face either Spain or France in the final.
