Key Takeaways
- Lionel Messi will finally play against England in a World Cup match.
- The 39-year-old Argentinian star has never faced the Three Lions before.
- Argentina are one game away from reaching another World Cup final.
Argentinian football legend Lionel Messi is set to face his arch-rivals England in a World Cup semi-final at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. This match marks the first time Messi, who has played 200 caps for Argentina, will take on the Three Lions.
Messi's career has been nothing short of spectacular, with him leading Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup and now aiming to secure a place in another final. His journey began in 2005 when he made his debut against Hungary, replacing Lisandro Lopez after just 64 minutes.
Despite his illustrious career, Messi has never played against England, making this match particularly significant for him. 'I have played against everyone except England and it is special because they are a major nation, a powerhouse, and it is always nice to play against a side like that, especially in a World Cup semi-final,' said Messi after Argentina's victory over Switzerland.
Ahead of the semi-finals, Messi has already broken records. With 21 goals from 32 appearances, he leads the tournament with one goal more than France’s Kylian Mbappe. His performance has been nothing short of remarkable, and his team is now just one game away from another World Cup final.
The last time Argentina faced England was in 1986 during the quarter-finals at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. Diego Maradona's 'Hand of God' goal and subsequent run past half the English defence remain etched in football history. Messi, while not replicating that exact moment, has already scored more World Cup goals than any other player.
Argentina are now one game away from becoming the first team to retain the World Cup trophy since Brazil in 1962. With Messi leading the charge, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as Argentina aim for a third final in four World Cups.
The match is set to take place on Wednesday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, with the stage perfectly set for one of the most anticipated football encounters in recent memory.
