The nation stands just 180 minutes away from footballing immortality — and possibly an extra day off work.

England are now only two matches away from lifting the World Cup for the first time since 1966.

Such a triumph would bring an end to six decades without a major trophy for the men’s national team and cement this generation of players in the annals of English football history.

All that remains is the daunting task of defeating reigning world champions Argentina, followed by overcoming two of the tournament favourites — France and Spain — should they advance to the final.

If England were to reach and win the final, it would spark some of the largest celebrations the country has ever witnessed. Supporters of the Three Lions would no doubt spend Sunday night rejoicing, while many might wonder whether they’ll manage to make it to work on Monday morning.

That leads to the inevitable question — will there be a bank holiday if England clinch the trophy in New Jersey?

Outgoing Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has hinted that the idea of a bank holiday will be taken into consideration if England go all the way.

Speaking at a NATO summit in Turkey before Thomas Tuchel’s side defeated Norway, Starmer remarked, “I don’t want to jinx it, but ask me again if we get to the final.”

A possible date for national celebrations has already been identified, with Friday, 24 July being discussed as a potential public holiday.

Although Starmer is unlikely to remain in office by the time such a decision must be made — having resigned last month pending the Labour Party’s leadership selection — preparations for the event are still expected to proceed.

Andy Burnham, widely considered to be Starmer’s most likely successor at 10 Downing Street, has previously played down the speculation, describing talk of a bank holiday before England’s trip to the Azteca as “a bit premature.”

Now, with England just 180 minutes away from a potential footballing milestone, the discussion seems far more relevant, and planning is reportedly in motion.

The path ahead, however, remains steep. Argentina fought their way into the semi-finals after dramatic battles against Cape Verde, Egypt, and Switzerland.

England will have to contend with Lionel Messi, who continues to deliver moments of brilliance at 39 years of age and is likely playing in his final World Cup. His eight goals in this tournament have made him the all-time leading scorer with a record 21 goals, surpassing Miroslav Klose’s previous mark of 16.

Should England triumph in the semi-final, they will meet either France — boasting arguably the strongest attack in the competition — or Spain, who have been lauded for possessing the most resilient defence.