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Lionel Messi has referred to Argentina’s forthcoming World Cup semi-final clash with England as a “special” occasion, as the legendary forward prepares for a rare first-time experience in Atlanta. After both teams battled through intense quarter-final contests, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner is eagerly anticipating his maiden encounter with the Three Lions on the international stage.

A historic showdown in Atlanta

Messi is ready to tick off one of the final remaining milestones in his illustrious career when Argentina face England in the 2026 World Cup semi-finals. The fixture was confirmed after both nations emerged victorious from challenging quarter-final matches — Argentina defeating Switzerland 3-1 after extra time, while Thomas Tuchel’s England edged past Norway 2-1, also after an extended period.

Scheduled to be held in Atlanta on Wednesday, the semi-final will mark the first time Messi faces England while representing his country. Despite an extraordinary career spanning decades, the 39-year-old has never met the Three Lions in international football, adding further intrigue to what is already a monumental World Cup knockout tie.

Chasing Maradona’s legendary legacy

The footballing rivalry between Argentina and England is steeped in World Cup history, most famously the 1986 quarter-final when Diego Maradona scored two of the sport’s most iconic goals. Messi admitted that although he was not born when those moments occurred, they remain deeply embedded in Argentina’s national identity. “Everything I have seen and remember [about Argentina vs. England from 1986] is from videos and images that Argentinians constantly watch and relive,” Messi told ESPN.

Reflecting on the unique nature of this matchup, the Inter Miami captain continued: “I think this group is used to playing matches no matter who the opponent is. Obviously, playing against England is special because they are a powerhouse, and matches against powerhouses are always special. Personally, it’s the first time I’m going to play against them. I’ve played against everyone except England, so it will be nice for that reason too. And we’ll experience it for what it is: a World Cup semi-final against a powerhouse, a great team, and we’ll try to arrive in the best possible shape to compete again.”

Messi’s scoring streak comes to an end

Messi has been in spectacular form throughout the ongoing World Cup, currently leading the tournament’s scoring charts with eight goals — level with France’s Kylian Mbappé. This impressive tally has further cemented his position as the all-time top scorer in World Cup history, taking his overall total to an unprecedented 21 goals.

The Argentine talisman recorded a hat-trick against Algeria, two goals against Austria, and one each against Jordan, Cape Verde, and Egypt. However, his remarkable goal-scoring streak came to an end in the quarter-final victory over Switzerland, where he failed to find the net for the first time in the tournament but provided a vital assist instead. This brought to a close an extraordinary run of consecutive World Cup scoring appearances that began when he scored against Australia in the round of 16 at Qatar 2022.

Álvarez cautious of England’s challenge

Argentina advanced to the semi-finals courtesy of a brilliant extra-time goal from Julián Álvarez, followed by a decisive third from Lautaro Martínez in their win over Switzerland. They now prepare to face an England side energised by the outstanding form of Jude Bellingham. While the historic elements of the rivalry — including Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ and David Beckham’s 1998 red card — continue to dominate discussions, the Argentine squad remains focused on the present quality of Tuchel’s team, particularly with Bellingham’s heroics against Norway fresh in memory. “We are very proud to be among the top four teams in the world,” Álvarez said following the win over the Swiss.

The Atlético Madrid striker cautioned that the defending world champions must remain fully focused if they wish to secure a place in next Sunday’s final against either Spain or France. “England, we know, have incredible players. They are a great team that has been performing very well [this World Cup], but we must recover and prepare our game,” Álvarez added.