As Argentina, France, England, and Spain approach the final stages of the World Cup, a statistical comparison highlights their performances to date. All four teams have played six matches, but variations in game time, including extra-time periods, offer a nuanced view of their offensive and defensive statistics.
Argentina, the reigning champions, have scored the most goals with 17. However, France, a two-time World Cup winner, is noted for being the most effective attacking side overall. They lead in average goals per game, share the lead in the total number of shots, and have the highest expected goals (xG) per 90 minutes.
Argentina has demonstrated exceptional clinical finishing, converting 18% of their chances. In contrast, European champions Spain, despite taking a similar number of shots to France (110), have scored fewer goals, with 11 compared to France's 16, resulting in a notably lower goal-per-game average.
England's statistical profile shows they have been less creative than the other three semi-finalists. Nevertheless, they have maintained an average of more than two goals per game, attributed to efficient finishing from players like Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane.
This statistical analysis takes into account the total playing time for each team, adjusting for matches that have gone into extra time. This approach provides a more accurate picture of the teams' efficiency and performance metrics as they head into the crucial semi-final matches.