Lionel Messi says England clash will be 'special' as Argentina prepare for first-ever meeting
Lionel Messi says facing England in the FIFA World Cup semi-final will be "special", describing the Three Lions as a "powerhouse" ahead of the first international meeting of his career against England. Argentina booked their place in the last four after defeating Switzerland 3-1 after extra time, while England overcame Norway 2-1 after extra time to set up Wednesday's showdown in Atlanta.
The comments came immediately after Argentina's quarter-final victory, with Messi looking ahead rather than dwelling on the dramatic win. Although Argentina and England share one of football's most famous rivalries, the 39-year-old has never previously represented Argentina against England, making the occasion historically significant as well as a World Cup semi-final.
Messi eager for long-awaited England encounter
Messi acknowledged both England's quality and the uniqueness of finally facing them on the international stage.
He said he considers England one of world football's leading nations and stressed that the attraction lies in the quality of the contest rather than the historical rivalry. Argentina will instead approach the match as another knockout fixture against elite opposition while aiming to defend their World Cup crown.
"Playing against England is special because they are a powerhouse, and matches against powerhouses are always special."
Argentina keep focus on football despite historic rivalry
While the fixture inevitably revives memories of previous World Cup meetings between the two nations, Argentina's camp has attempted to keep attention on football.
Forward José Manuel López described the tie as one with "a lot of history" but insisted the squad would prepare exactly as it has throughout the tournament. Head coach Lionel Scaloni also played down wider narratives, saying it should simply be viewed as a football match despite the significance attached to the fixture.
Argentina needed extra time to eliminate Switzerland, with Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez sealing a 3-1 victory after Switzerland had forced the game beyond 90 minutes. England likewise required extra time against Norway before Jude Bellingham's brace secured a 2-1 win. Both teams therefore arrive in Atlanta after physically demanding quarter-finals.
| Stats | |
| Argentina quarter-final | Argentina 3-1 Switzerland (after extra time). |
| England quarter-final | England 2-1 Norway (after extra time). |
| Historic milestone | Messi will face England internationally for the first time. |
| Semi-final date | Argentina vs England will be played on 15 July in Atlanta. |
What this means
Messi's remarks underline Argentina's focus on preparation rather than emotion before one of the tournament's biggest fixtures. England are also chasing a place in the final after successive comeback victories, ensuring the semi-final brings together two of the competition's strongest surviving teams.
The next confirmed fixture is Argentina against England in the FIFA World Cup semi-final in Atlanta on Wednesday, with the winners advancing to the final.