Croatia

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.

In a competitive encounter, Croatia secures a tight 2-1 victory over Ghana, with Petar Sučić's decisive goal in the 31st minute proving pivotal. Croatia's 4-1 advantage in shots on target underscores their attacking efficiency, allowing them to maintain control despite Ghana's efforts to equalize.

England secures a convincing 4-2 victory over Croatia, with Harry Kane's early goal in the 12th minute setting the tone for a decisive win. Dominating the shot count 22-10, England's offensive prowess overwhelms Croatia, ensuring control and momentum throughout the match.

France have scored 16 goals — and conceded just 4 — across seven matches, yet their first tournament defeat to Spain exposed a finishing vulnerability that England may look to exploit. England have won five of seven, with Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane sharing 12 goals between them, but conceded eight times — twice as many as France. Both teams score heavily from the second half onward. Both arrive wounded. Sportami identifies the patterns that will shape the World Cup's third-place playoff.

In a classic smash-and-grab performance, Croatia snatched a 1-0 victory over Panama despite being on the back foot for much of the match. Ante Budimir's decisive goal in the 54th minute capitalized on one of Croatia's rare chances, as they managed only two shots on target compared to Panama's one, underscoring their efficiency against the run of play.

In a competitive encounter, Portugal secures a tight 2-1 victory over Croatia. Despite Ivan Perišić giving Croatia the lead in the 53rd minute, Cristiano Ronaldo's decisive performance turns the tide. Portugal's 61% possession allows them to control the game, ultimately overcoming Croatia's initial advantage.