Giuliano Simeone starts for Argentina in World Cup semifinal, eyes final

Giuliano Simeone, the 23-year-old son of Diego Simeone, started for Argentina in their 2-1 semifinal win over England in the 2026 World Cup, replacing Rodrigo De Paul. The Atlético Madrid forward played with intensity and was substituted in the second half, after which Argentina rallied from a 1-0 deficit to win with goals from Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez.

A career milestone

Simeone, who was born in Rome but chose to represent Argentina, rose through the ranks at River Plate and Atlético Madrid before loan spells at Real Zaragoza and Alavés. He emphasized his choice to wear the family name on his Argentina shirt: "I told my family that if I could represent our country, I would put the name Simeone on the shirt to make them proud" Source: lavozar.

Match and reaction

Argentina trailed after Anthony Gordon's goal, but substitute changes by Lionel Scaloni turned the game. Simeone told reporters: "The group always comes above everything... we are very happy because the group always gives you confidence" Source: infobae. He also said: "Now we have to go all out on Sunday" Source: infobae ahead of the final against Spain.

Looking ahead

Simeone acknowledged the guidance of senior players: "I have been in the national team for a short time, and the older ones transmit the message of always continuing, always fighting" Source: infobae. His father, Diego Simeone, had advised him to "leave everything for the shirt" Source: lavozar.