Argentina has eliminated European teams seven times in the 21st century, more than all other South American countries combined.

Argentina will face England in the World Cup semi-final, having previously eliminated Switzerland in the quarter-finals. Regardless of their semi-final result, Argentina will play their final two matches in this World Cup against European teams.

According to statistics, in the 21st century, the Argentine team eliminated European teams 7 times in the World Cup knockout stage, more than all other South American teams combined (6 times).

In 2014, Argentina eliminated Switzerland, Belgium, and the Netherlands to reach the final. In 2022, they eliminated the Netherlands, Croatia, and France to win the championship. In 2026, they eliminated Switzerland to reach the semi-finals.

Brazil has only won the World Cup four times, all in 2002, when they eliminated Belgium, England, Turkey, and Germany to win the title. Since then, Brazil has suffered defeats against European teams in the World Cup knockout stages.

Furthermore, Uruguay eliminated Portugal in the Round of 16 of the 2018 World Cup, and Paraguay eliminated Germany in the Round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup.