Michael Owen believes England can raise their game to defeat Argentina in the World Cup semi-finals, despite acknowledging the team was outplayed for significant periods by Norway in their quarter-final victory.
"England were played off the park by Norway and the performance was as bad as I feared," Owen stated. "But here's why they CAN beat Argentina."
Owen suggested that criticism from Thomas Tuchel regarding England's performance levels against Norway, while accurate, should not be taken negatively by the players. He posited that Tuchel's praise for the team's mentality and willingness to fight for each other is a key strength that has carried them through the tournament. "He's saying, 'I know how good you are and I know there's more to come'," Owen explained. "Every player wants a manager who believes that."
Jude Bellingham's "spiky" response to Tuchel's comments has become a talking point, but Owen contextualized it by noting Bellingham had just played seven and a half miles in high humidity and scored the goals to reach the semi-finals. "You're probably going to be a little bit spiky," Owen said, adding that Bellingham's emotional nature is part of what makes him special and that his place in the team is unquestioned.
Owen advised Tuchel to "quietly file away" Bellingham's response and avoid confrontation before a major semi-final. He stressed that management involves keeping the team united, especially with such a crucial match approaching. "You don’t start an argument with your best player four days before a World Cup semi-final," he noted.
Owen reiterated his concerns about England's technical flaws observed in earlier matches, including their performance against Mexico, which he felt was mirrored in periods against Norway. He dismissed the idea that England must continue to "win ugly," expressing confidence that they can improve against Argentina.
"Styles make fights," Owen said, drawing parallels to boxing and horse racing. "Some opponents suit you, some don’t." He explained that England has faced teams they were expected to beat, leading to a different kind of pressure and a grind to secure wins.
Argentina, as reigning world champions with Lionel Messi, will be expected to attack, which Owen believes will suit England. "They’ll attack. They’ll commit bodies forward. That suits England," he said. He also noted that the occasion and the pedigree of the opposition will bring out a better performance. Owen believes Argentina has also had a favorable route and relied on resilience and moments of fortune.
"The scary thought is, I believe we will see another level again to Bellingham in Atlanta," Owen concluded. "If any player will rise to that occasion, it will be him. What we need is everyone else to go with him." He also questioned whether wingers can contribute goals and if the midfield can maintain possession.
Owen emphasized that major games often produce the biggest performances, especially from top players, and that Tuchel's directness was a challenge rather than a warning for England to meet against Argentina.