On the latest episode of Copa Independent, Lawrence Ostlere is joined by Miguel Delaney in Atlanta and Kieran Jackson to preview the World Cup semi-finals: England v Argentina and Spain v France, a last four featuring the top four ranked teams and four previous winners. England’s win over Norway is assessed through the Miami heat, Jude Bellingham’s form and Golden Boot push, Harry Kane’s fatigue, Declan Rice’s fitness, Tuchel’s substitutions, and the Tuchel–Bellingham media flashpoint. They also explore the deep history and political context of England–Argentina, Messi facing England for the first time, and the tactical contrast of Spain’s positional play against France’s attacking freedom, plus how rest days and VAR could shape the run-in. For all the analysis, predictions and news you need for the World Cup, tune in to Copa Independent on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.

Lawrence Ostler is joined by Miguel Delaney, Richard Jolly and Kieran Jackson to react to France’s 2-0 win over Morocco, with Kylian Mbappé central to an imperious performance.…

Quite appropriately, the top four-ranked men's teams have qualified for the World Cup semifinals. France, Spain, Argentina and England are vying to reach the final.