England will lock horns against the defending world champions Argentina in their semifinal clash at the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026 on Thursday, July 16 at the Atlanta Stadium in Atlanta. It is going to be the first clash between the two countries in a semifinal game of the FIFA World Cup. Last time when both Argentina and England faced each other in a world cup semifinal, it was in 1986 where Diego Maradona scored the famous "Hand of God" followed up with the "Goal of the Century".
England boss Thomas Tuchel reflects on Lionel Messi
Later, Argentina went on to win the 1986 edition by defeating West Germany in the summit clash, Maradona was the best player for the South American nation by making 10 direct goal contributions in the tournament. In the 1990 edition, Argentina managed to reach the final where they faced defeat against West Germany.
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Now, England's boss Thomas Tuchel has opened up on the blockbuster clash, revealing his plan to restrict Messi from making an impact at the game with his unique vision in the game. While appearing at the pre-game press conference, Tuchel admitted that Messi is a different player from Erling Haaland, who they faced in the quarterfinal clash against Norway. However Tuchel concluded by saying that they will try to figure out a way to stop Lionel Messi from influencing the outcome of the game.
“We are totally aware that we can’t stop him all the time and for 100%. He is a very different player from Erling Haaland, but we did very, very well in our way, in the way you maybe should play against Erling, so we will find a way now," Tuchel said while speaking at the pre-match press conference.
How has Messi played so far in the FIFA World Cup?
The 39-year-old forward has enjoyed a dream run so far at the FIFA World Cup 2026. The Argentina captain has managed to smash eight goals and record two assists in just six outings. Notably, this is his best performance in the World Cups. Now, Messi will look to go beyond the semi-final and reach the summit clash for the second time in a row.
Now, Lionel Messi would look to finish his career on a high by reaching the final of the FIFA World Cup for a second time in a row. He is one goal away from reaching the top position in the Golden Boot charts.