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SportsPublished: 14 July 2026 at 12:36

Expert: Coaching decisions to decide World Cup semi-finals

According to football expert Dmitry Skipersky, the semi-finals are too close to call, and the outcome will hinge on coaches' ability to react and adjust tactics.

Foto: ERR (rus)

The World Cup semi-finals, taking place on July 14 and 15, will feature the four strongest teams according to the FIFA ranking: France vs Spain and Argentina vs England. Football expert Dmitry Skipersky believes that at this stage of the tournament, it is nearly impossible to name a favorite, as small details and coaching decisions will be decisive.

Skipersky highlights the importance of the coaching duel, noting that managers have repeatedly shown their ability to change the course of matches. He cites Spain's Luis de la Fuente, who has made effective substitutions, and England's Thomas Tuchel, who has used tactical adjustments to turn games around. While all four teams boast star players – France possibly being the most star-studded – the combination of individual brilliance and coaching acumen makes the semi-finals highly unpredictable.

The first semi-final between France and Spain will be played on July 14 at 22:00, followed by England vs Argentina on July 15 at the same time. Both matches will be broadcast live with Russian commentary on ETV+ and Rus.ERR.

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