Spain, France, Argentina and England beware: Demons haunt the World Cup semi-finals
Jonathan Wilson explores the intense cultural and psychological weight placed on World Cup semi-final matches. The article discusses how individual moments in these high-stakes games become permanent, defining parts of sporting history.
Carles Puyol of Spain in 2010; Didier Six of France in 1982 and David Beckham of England in 1998 all experienced notable World Cup moments. Composite: Guardian Picture Desk Carles Puyol of Spain in 2010; Didier Six of France in 1982 and David Beckham of England in 1998 all experienced notable World Cup moments. Composite: Guardian Picture Desk Soccer with Jonathan Wilson World Cup 2026 Spain, France, Argentina and England beware: Demons haunt the World Cup semi-finals The World Cup spotlight causes single games to live longer in the memory than any other. The remaining teams at this tournament face defining moments
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