Lionel Messi has redefined how to influence matches at the World Cup, staggering fans by walking for almost half of his time on the pitch. As Argentina prepare to face England in a highly anticipated semi-final, staggering statistics show exactly how the forward is adapting his game to dominate opponents and preserve his energy for the most crucial, game-changing moments.
FIFA has officially announced that American referee Ismail Elfath will officiate England's World Cup semi-final against Argentina. The 44-year-old experienced MLS official, widely regarded as a lucky charm for Lionel Messi, will oversee the blockbuster clash in Atlanta on Wednesday night as Thomas Tuchel aims to guide the Three Lions past the defending world champions.
Nico O'Reilly is relishing the prospect of facing Lionel Messi when England meet Argentina in the World Cup semi-finals. The Manchester City youngster described the opportunity as "once-in-a-lifetime", while Jordan Pickford warned England must not become overly focused on stopping the Albiceleste captain alone.
Before the start of Lionel Messi's sixth World Cup, the common consensus was that he'd seen and done it all. After effectively completing football four years ago in Qatar, there was even a fear that there was no way he could, at 39 years of age, add to his legacy - only slightly sully it. Messi, though, has spent his entire career making a mockery out of conventional wisdom and has actually managed to solidify his status as the greatest player of all time by becoming the World Cup's all-time leading goal-scorer and assist-maker during Argentina's run to the semi-finals.
John Terry has thrown down the gauntlet ahead of England's monumental World Cup semi-final clash against Argentina, claiming the Three Lions possess a superior squad to the reigning world champions. The former Chelsea captain believes Thomas Tuchel's side should have no reason to fear the South American giants despite the presence of an evergreen Lionel Messi.
Lionel Messi is “more mortal now”, former England international Gary Pallister has told GOAL, with the Three Lions considered to be capable of ending Argentina’s World Cup title defence. Thomas Tuchel’s side are due to lock horns with the reigning champions on Wednesday, with questions already being asked of how best to contain an evergreen all-time great.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta has expressed his immense admiration for Lionel Messi’s continued brilliance, describing the forward's 2026 World Cup campaign as "extraordinary". Speaking from Dallas ahead of the tournament's semi-finals, Laporta also took the opportunity to evaluate the performances of Lamine Yamal and Anthony Gordon.
Former England international Joe Cole has sensationally claimed that the Three Lions will "put Lionel Messi to bed" when they meet Argentina in the World Cup semi-finals. Despite the daunting task of facing the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, Cole is adamant that England's superior pace will prove too much for the Albiceleste.
Lionel Messi has described Argentina’s upcoming World Cup semi-final tie against England as "special", as the legendary playmaker prepares for a rare career first in Atlanta. Following hard-fought quarter-final victories for both heavyweights, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner is relishing the chance to finally face the Three Lions on the international stage.
Lionel Messi was involved in a heated confrontation with referee Joao Pedro Pinheiro during Argentina’s dramatic 2026 World Cup quarter-final victory over Switzerland. The Inter Miami superstar was caught on camera demanding respect from the Portuguese official following a disagreement over a defensive wall.
Lionel Messi has hailed the resilience of his Argentina side after they survived a major scare against 10-man Switzerland to book their place in the 2026 World Cup semi-finals. The legendary No.10 is now preparing for a historic showdown against England in Atlanta, marking the first time he will face the Three Lions in his career.
Lionel Messi has conquered almost every peak in world football, but the 2026 World Cup semi-final will provide the legendary No.10 with a brand-new experience. England stand between the 39-year-old and another global final, marking the first time the Inter Miami superstar has ever faced the Three Lions in his storied international career.
Julian Alvarez had largely struggled through the 2026 World Cup, but he delivered when Argentina needed him most, scoring a stunning goal in a hard-fought 3-1 win over Switzerland that set-up a semi-final against England. The scoreline flattered La Albiceleste, as the Swiss went blow for blow with the reigning champions and had reason to feel aggrieved by the officiating.
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