England World Cup 2026 ranking rises as Ally McCoist names the Three Lions among the tournament’s top three teams ahead of Argentina clash

Former Scotland striker Ally McCoist has ranked England as the third-best team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, placing the Three Lions among the tournament’s strongest remaining sides ahead of their semi-final meeting with Argentina.

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McCoist shared his assessment on The Rest is Football podcast as England prepare to face Argentina on Wednesday, arguing that Thomas Tuchel’s side have shown enough quality to be considered among the leading contenders for the trophy.

The former Rangers forward placed France at the top of his rankings, while suggesting England are stronger than their semi-final opponents Argentina.

“At this moment in time, England are the third-best team left in the tournament,” McCoist said.

“The good news is you are playing a team that I think you are better than. I think England are better than Argentina.”

McCoist praised England’s overall balance but warned that Argentina remain dangerous because of their attacking quality and the influence of captain Lionel Messi.

“France looks like the best team in the tournament, but concentrate on the semi-final,” he added. “Defensively, Argentina aren’t great but going forward, we know Messi is capable of doing something out of nowhere.”

England’s meeting with Argentina represents one of the biggest fixtures of the 2026 tournament, with both nations competing for a place in the final.

The Three Lions are seeking another opportunity to win their second World Cup title, while Argentina are aiming to continue their recent success on the global stage after lifting the trophy in 2022.

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With the competition reaching its decisive stages, McCoist believes England have developed into one of the tournament’s most complete teams, but their progress will be tested against an experienced Argentina side capable of producing moments of individual brilliance.