29 pictures of hopeful England fans gathering in Blackpool ahead of the World Cup semi-final against Argentina

As anticipation builds ahead of England's 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final against Argentina, Blackpool's Three Lions supporters are preparing to cheer on their team in one of international football's most fiercely contested rivalries.

England have battled their way to the last four with knockout victories over DR Congo, Mexico and Norway after progressing from the group stage, while Argentina have reached the semi-finals with wins over Cape Verde, Egypt and Switzerland.

The winners will face Spain in Sunday's World Cup final after the Spaniards defeated France 2-0 in the other semi-final.

In Blackpool, fans hoping England can take another step towards World Cup glory are gathering in pubs and fan zones as well as in living rooms decked out in red and white, with the pictures below capturing the excitement and anticipation ahead of a match steeped in football history.

Encounters between England and Argentina have produced some of the sport's most memorable moments, ensuring tonight's showdown promises to be another unforgettable chapter...