Defending world champions Argentina will lock horns with England in the semifinal clash at the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026 on July 16 (As per IST) at the Atlanta Stadium in Atlanta. Ahead of the blockbuster clash, Lionel Messi and Co. have requested FIFA for permission to wear their blue away kit instead of their legendary sky-blue and white jersey.
As per Argentine journalist Gaston Edul, Argentina national team has sent a special request to don their away all-blue kit they used only once in the entire competition. The three-time world champions wore their all-blue kit in their 3-1 group stage win over Jordan.
However, FIFA will have to give their final call on the kit allocations for the last-four clash, with decisions to rely on the color clashes, visibility and broadcast needs.
Reason behind Argentina's request to wear All-Blue kit
As of now there is no official information on why the Lionel Scaloni's side have made this request but it could be as said that the Argentine team have done this in connection with some superstition, as their all-two wins against the Three Lions came when they donned the navy or dark blue jersey.
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Interestingly, this is going to be the first time when Lionel Messi will be playing against England in any kind of international fixture despite playing for 20 years. Ahead of the blockbuster clash, Messi expressed his excitement on facing England for the vert first time in his legendary career.
"Obviously, playing against England is special because they are a powerhouse, and matches against powerhouses are always special. Personally, it’s the first time I’m going to play against them. I’ve played against everyone except England, so it will be nice for that reason too. And we’ll experience it for what it is: a World Cup semi-final against a powerhouse, a great team, and we’ll try to arrive in the best possible shape to compete again," said Messi.
Lionel Messi's sensational performance in FIFA World Cup 2026
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.