Rodrigo De Paul Tegaskan Kunci Mental Jelang Semifinal Argentina vs Inggris
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Argentina midfielder Rodrigo De Paul emphasized the crucial role of mental strength ahead of the 2026 World Cup semifinal against England.
- De Paul detailed his preparation, including working with a team psychologist and spending time with close associates to maintain focus and emotional control.
- He acknowledged the historical significance of the Argentina-England rivalry, recalling past iconic matches while expressing confidence in his team's ability to perform.
Rodrigo De Paul, a key midfielder for the Argentine national team, has stressed that mental fortitude will be paramount when facing England in the 2026 World Cup semifinal. The high-stakes match is scheduled to take place at the Atlanta Stadium in the United States.
Mental strength is very important, and I continue to reinforce it.
"Mental strength is very important, and I continue to reinforce it," De Paul stated before training at the Atlanta United Training Ground in Marietta, Georgia. To prepare for the crucial encounter, the 32-year-old player has been actively communicating with the national team's psychologist. This focus on mental conditioning aims to ensure calmness and concentration leading up to the game. De Paul also mentioned the importance of surrounding himself with supportive individuals who understand him well, as they offer guidance and maintain his composure.
De Paul revealed that he frequently visualizes potential worst-case scenarios for the match against England. He believes managing expectations and pressure is vital in such a significant fixture. "I also have to be able to control my emotions, even though that's not always possible. All my energy is focused on tomorrow's match," he said. The player, who previously played for Atletico Madrid from 2021 to 2025, is confident that his teammates are undertaking similar preparations.
I also have to be able to control my emotions, even though that's not always possible. All my energy is focused on tomorrow's match.
Argentina understands the necessity of maintaining a calm and collected approach to secure victory. De Paul expressed pride in his team's consistent performance over the years, acknowledging the difficulty of sustaining success. "This match is very important; it must be the moment we show our best abilities," he asserted. The article also provides a historical overview of Argentina's encounters with England, noting England's edge in wins but highlighting Argentina's memorable victories, including Diego Maradona's iconic goals in 1986, which propelled them to win the World Cup that year. Argentina has won the World Cup three times: in 1978, 1986, and 2022.
I always feel proud of the team. It is difficult to maintain victory from year to year, but we have managed to do so until now. However, this match is very important; it must be the moment we show our best abilities.
Originally published by Republika. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.