Lionel Messi eyes historic World Cup semifinal against England

Lionel Messi Argentina England World Cup 2026 semifinal

Argentina and England are set to meet in the semifinal of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking the first time Lionel Messi will face the English side in a World Cup match. Messi said it is a special feeling to play against "one of the biggest powers in world football" and highlighted that, after 40 years since Diego Maradona's iconic 1986 victory, this clash could write a new chapter in his career.

Opta's AI model predicts France as the tournament favorite with a 34.05% chance to win, followed by Spain (23.45%) and England (21.94%). Argentina, the defending champion, is given a 20.55% probability. A historical note recalls that in 1986 Argentina had to source replacement shirts from Mexico's Tepito market for their quarter‑final against England, underscoring the long‑standing rivalry between the two nations.

Sources

Messi përgatitet për sfidën ndaj Anglisë: Një moment historik në karrierën e tij [infokosova.net]

about 4 hours ago

Superkompjuteri i Opta-s parashikon fituesin e Kupës së Botës 2026, Argjentina nuk është favoritja kryesore [www.epokaere.com]

about 3 hours ago

Messi, ilusionado: "Es la primera vez que voy a jugar contra ellos" [www.mundodeportivo.com]

about 5 hours ago

‘No teníamos ropa’: La vez que Argentina compró en Tepito sus playeras para jugar en el Mundial de 1986 [www.elfinanciero.com.mx]

about 21 hours ago