Vieira Backs England for World Cup Semis as Saka-Madueke Debate Intensifies

Patrick Vieira, the World Cup winner with France, has thrown his weight behind England's chances at this tournament, insisting they'll make the semi-finals "at least" – and possibly go further still.

The Three Lions sit among the competition favourites alongside France, Spain, and defending champions Argentina. Yet their campaign has been a study in contrasts so far. A commanding 4-2 demolition of Croatia suggested serious intent, only for a 0-0 stalemate with Ghana to puncture the early optimism.

Speaking on The Rest is Football, Vieira acknowledged the frustration but urged perspective. Ghana, he argued, deserved credit for their disciplined setup and dangerous transitions. The result wasn't a collapse, merely a reminder that tournament football demands adaptation.

"I still believe England will be in the semi-finals at least and maybe the final because this is a really good side," Vieira said. "They didn't find the keys against Ghana but they will learn from it and the manager will come with solutions if they play another team like Ghana."

The Frenchman's comments carry particular weight given his observation that tactical tweaks and personnel changes lie ahead. Should England face similar defensive opponents, expect a different approach – and potentially different faces.

This sets up an intriguing subplot: the Saka versus Madueke question. To date, Madueke has started both matches while Saka has appeared off the bench. Against Ghana, the Arsenal winger made an immediate impression in just 18 minutes, matching Madueke's shot count from 83 minutes of action. One of those efforts forced a save from Benjamin Asare. Saka also completed more successful dribbles than his Chelsea counterpart.

A minor fitness issue has kept Saka from the starting XI, but many expect him to claim that berth when knockout football beckons. Vieira noted the contrast: "When Bukayo Saka was on the field at the end he brought something different to Noni Madueke."

The implication is clear – as England's opponents stiffen, so too may the manager's selection.