Atlanta, July 15 -- Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni brushed aside criticism of his side's performances at the FIFA World Cup 2026, insisting the defending champions have earned their place in the semi-finals and are fully focused on overcoming England to reach another final, reported ESPN.

Argentina will take on England in a blockbuster last-four clash in Atlanta on Wednesday (local time), with the winners advancing to face Spain in the World Cup final at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19.

Speaking ahead of the contest, Scaloni defended his team's displays after questions were raised over Argentina's performances despite a perfect record of six wins from six matches.

"The team isn't playing as bad as people say. We must have d...