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Lionel Messi faces England for first time in World Cup semi-final

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 14, 2026, 3:18 AM

Last updated Jul 14, 2026

Lionel Messi faces England for first time in World Cup semi-final

Summary

Lionel Messi will play against England for the first time in his international career during the World Cup semi-final on July 14, 2026, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Messi, who recently celebrated his 200th cap for Argentina, is aiming to lead his team to another final, having already won the tournament in 2022. Previously, Argentina and England have an iconic history in World Cup matches, including the infamous 1986 quarter-final. Messi holds the record for the most World Cup goals and is seeking to emulate Diego Maradona's legacy by reaching yet another final.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Messi has never faced England before in international play.
•He won his 200th cap during a previous tournament match.
•Argentina looks to reach their third final in four World Cups.
•Messi has scored the most goals in World Cup history.
•The match is set for July 14, 2026, in Atlanta.

Latest Updates

3:18 AMYahoo Sports — Messi meets England at last with World Cup final place on the line

What they're saying

"
Lionel Messi has done just about everything possible in a glorious career, but the 39-year-old Argentinian great has never taken on England -- he will finally get the chance in Wednesday's World Cup semi-final.It would be a third final in four World Cups, and Messi could follow in the footsteps of Brazil great Cafu.
— Yahoo Sports

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