Argentina midfielder Alexis Mac Allister claimed not to be surprised to be facing England in the World Cup semi-finals despite dismissing their chances of glory this summer two months ago.
The old rivals go head-to-head in Atlanta at the magnificent Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Wednesday with a place in Sunday’s showpiece against Spain the reward.
Mac Allister always felt holders Argentina had a strong chance of following up their 2022 triumph in North America, where he said Spain, France and Brazil were other contenders in an interview with Sky Sports’ Jamie Redknapp in May.
The Liverpool midfielder said with a smirk “do you think you have a chance?” when Redknapp pointed out that he had not mentioned England – comments brought up on the eve of the semi-final.
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Speaking to Jamie Redknapp back in May, Argentina's Alexis Mac Allister didn't give England a CHANCE at the World Cup! 👀🏆 pic.twitter.com/moZZyMU6dR
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) July 14, 2026
Asked if he is surprised Thomas Tuchel’s side have got this far, Mac Allister said: “No, not surprised.
“I understand what you’re saying because it was an interview that Jamie was doing at Liverpool and it was a bit of a joke.
“Because at the same time that I said that they were they were not going to be in this situation, I said that they have amazing players and a really good coach as well, so I’m not surprised.
“I’m not surprised they have. As I said, very good players, they know what they are doing and they have a great idea, so we really respect them and we will try our best to win.”