Lionel Messi set to face England for the first time in the World Cup

Lionel Messi will play against England for the first time in his career on July 15, 2026, during the World Cup semi-finals in Atlanta. Despite having 205 caps and a successful international career, Messi missed an opportunity to face England in 2005 due to a controversial red card in his international debut against Hungary. That incident, described as a 'crime against football,' resulted in his suspension for the match against England. Messi's history of not facing England adds significance to the upcoming match, which also marks a long-awaited competitive reunion between the two sides since their last meeting in November 2005.

• 5:56 AMYahoo Sports — The ‘anti-football’ red card that explains why Lionel Messi has never faced England