Marc Guehi started for England in their World Cup semi-final against Argentina on Wednesday night, with the former Crystal Palace captain partnering John Stones in central defence as Thomas Tuchel’s side chased a place in Sunday’s final.
According to the official teamsheet confirmed by England Football and carried by Sky Sports and ESPN ahead of kick-off at Atlanta Stadium, Tuchel made three changes from the quarter-final win over Norway, with Morgan Rogers, Reece James and Djed Spence also coming into the side. Guehi’s involvement continues a rapid rise since his £20million move from Selhurst Park to Manchester City in January.
Tuchel Rewards Guehi With Another Big Occasion
Guehi has been a regular starter for England throughout the tournament and now faces arguably his sternest test yet, shepherding a defence tasked with containing Lionel Messi and Julián Álvarez. The match was goalless at half-time, with both sides struggling to fashion clear chances during a physical opening 45 minutes in Atlanta.
The 25-year-old made 188 appearances and captained Palace across four and a half years at Selhurst Park before his January exit. Read Crystal Palace argued in May that he is “probably the best centre-back in the country,” and his rise has continued at the Etihad since. Supporters have kept a close eye on his progress, with this summer’s tournament sharpening the rest of Palace’s World Cup contingent even as their former captain moved on.
A win for England would send Tuchel’s side into Sunday’s final against Spain. For Palace fans, Guehi’s role in Atlanta is a reminder of the growing list of England internationals produced at Selhurst Park, with the club’s most recent captain now one match away from a World Cup final.
