With Argentina, England, France and Spain reaching the World Cup semi-finals, a statistical comparison of their performances so far offers insights into each team's strengths and weaknesses. Argentina have scored the most goals (17) and have been the most clinical, converting 18% of their chances, while France have been the best side going forward overall, averaging the most goals and highest Expected Goals per 90 minutes. Spain have been the most solid defensively, conceding only one goal so far, and have also been the hardest-working team, running, sprinting, and pressing the most. England have been less creative than the other three sides but have still scored over two goals per game thanks to clinical finishing. Both England and Argentina have conceded six goals each, with neither side impressing defensively. Argentina have covered the most ground overall but have actually run the least when playing time is taken into account, and have been the least aggressive in pressing. Spain have enjoyed the most possession (66%) and have the joint-best passing accuracy along with Argentina. The upcoming semi-finals will see France's formidable attack face Spain's solid defense, while the other match between England and Argentina is expected to have more goals given their defensive records. Argentina's Lionel Messi has been the most prolific with through balls, threading 15 to his teammates, while England have been the most successful with crossing in open play among the semi-finalists.
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