Danny Ings

Argentina have scored 16 goals from 8 different players but needed extra time in two of three knockout matches. England have 13 goals from just three scorers — Bellingham and Kane account for 12 — but won their quarter-final with a 93rd-minute Bellingham strike. One team has depth. The other has destiny. The data reveals a semi-final shaped by mirror formations, contrasting vulnerabilities, and two very different paths to survival.

An analysis of team performances in the World Cup 2026 reveals early favorites and underdogs based on their first match outcomes.

Norway executes a classic smash-and-grab victory over Côte d'Ivoire, winning 2-1 despite being outshot 14-9. The turning point comes at the 39th minute when Antonio Nusa scores, giving Norway a lead against the run of play. Nusa's decisive goal shifts momentum, allowing Norway to capitalize on limited opportunities.

England's shocking collapse highlighted by a mere four passes in 19 minutes, underscoring their tactical disarray.

In a competitive encounter, Germany secures a tight 2-1 victory over Côte d'Ivoire. Franck Kessié's 30th-minute goal initially puts Côte d'Ivoire ahead, but Deniz Undav's decisive performance helps Germany overturn the deficit. Despite Côte d'Ivoire's early lead, Germany's 7-2 advantage in shots on target proves crucial in their comeback.

Argentina's 3-1 victory over Jordan is defined by their possession dominance, controlling 73% of the ball. This control allowed them to dictate the match's tempo, with Giovani Lo Celso's goal in the 19th minute serving as the turning point. Lo Celso's performance underscores Argentina's strategic mastery, effectively neutralizing Jordan's counterattacks.

Mexico's 2-0 victory over South Africa pivots on a crucial turning point: Yaya Sithole's red card in the 49th minute. This dismissal shifts the game's dynamics, allowing Mexico to dominate with a 16-3 shot advantage. Julián Quiñones capitalizes on this numerical superiority, emerging as the hero by orchestrating both goals.

Mexico's 2-0 victory over South Africa is defined by their possession dominance, allowing them to dictate the match's tempo and territory. Julián Quiñones' early goal in the 9th minute set the tone, while a 16-3 shot advantage underscored their control, limiting South Africa's offensive opportunities and securing a comfortable win.