Lionel Messi set for first-ever clash against England in historic FIFA World Cup 2026 Semi-Final

Despite a career spanning more than two decades and featuring virtually every major football honour, Messi has never played against England at senior international level—a remarkable statistic considering his longevity and success with Argentina

BUENOS AIRES: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-July 14th, 2026) Argentine football icon Lionel Messi is set to face England for the first time in his illustrious international career when Argentina take on the Three Lions in Wednesday's 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final.

Despite a career spanning more than two decades and featuring virtually every major football honour, Messi has never played against England at senior international level—a remarkable statistic considering his longevity and success with Argentina.

The last meeting between Argentina and England came in 2005, shortly after Messi made his senior international debut. However, the then-18-year-old forward missed the friendly after receiving a red card just 47 seconds into his debut against Hungary, resulting in a suspension that ruled him out of the England match.

Since then, Messi has gone on to become one of football's greatest players, winning multiple major titles and individual awards.

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Yet, Argentina and England have not crossed paths again in an official or friendly fixture during his international career.

Reports suggest that arranging a friendly between the two football giants became increasingly difficult over the years, partly because the appearance fees for Argentina featuring Messi rose to several million Pounds, making such fixtures financially challenging.

That long-awaited encounter is now finally set to become reality on the biggest stage of all. The 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final will mark Messi's first appearance against England, adding another historic chapter to his legendary career.

Football fans around the world are eagerly awaiting the high-profile showdown, with the match expected to be one of the tournament's biggest attractions as Messi seeks to guide Argentina into another World Cup final.