Lionel Messi’s Argentina and Harry Kane’s England are set to clash in a high-voltage World Cup semi-final. It may sound incredible, but it’s true — this will be the first time one of the greatest players in international football history, Messi, faces England. Similarly, this will also be the first match of England captain Harry Kane’s career against Argentina.
The history of the Argentina-England rivalry on the World Cup stage is long and thrilling. Who isn’t familiar with Argentina’s famous 2-1 victory over England in the quarter-finals of the 1986 World Cup? Diego Maradona’s unforgettable “Hand of God” goal remains one of the most iconic and talked-about moments in football history.
Twelve years later, at the 1998 World Cup, England managed to settle the score. After a dramatic 2-2 draw in regulation time, England earned sweet revenge by eliminating Argentina in a penalty shootout. That match, however, is also remembered for David Beckham’s red card, after the English star was sent off following a heated clash with Diego Simeone.
England’s most recent win over Argentina at a World Cup came in the 2002 group stage, a 1-0 victory secured by a David Beckham penalty. Defending champions Argentina are now desperate to take another step toward retaining their crown, while the Three Lions are looking to reach the final for the first time since 1966, when they lifted their only World Cup title.
Ahead of this much-anticipated semi-final clash, here’s a look at five key players who could shape the outcome of the match.
Lionel Messi (8 goals, 2 assists): Age is just a number for the 39-year-old Messi, as proven by his 8 goals and 2 assists at this World Cup. The Argentine maestro has repeatedly emerged as a savior for La Albiceleste. In the round of 16, Argentina came from behind to beat Egypt 3-2, with Messi scoring the equalizer.
England will need to be at their defensive best to contain the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner. Messi remains one of the most dangerous players in the world when it comes to positioning and finding space in the defense.
Harry Kane (6 goals, 1 assist): Captain Harry Kane is the driving force and symbol of confidence in England’s attack. The Bayern Munich striker possesses an incredible natural ability to find the back of the net from almost any position or situation. He is equally skilled at unlocking opposing defenses through intelligent combination play with his teammates. Containing Kane will be the biggest challenge facing the Argentine defense today.
Jude Bellingham (6 goals, 1 assist): Jude Bellingham has once again proven at this World Cup why he’s considered one of the finest midfielders of his generation. Whether driving forward with the ball to break through opposition lines, creating chances for teammates, or dropping back to defend, he excels at every facet of the game. It goes without saying that the Real Madrid star will be central to England’s game plan today.
Julián Álvarez (1 goal, 0 assists): Julián Álvarez’s only goal of this World Cup came in the quarter-final against Switzerland — but it proved decisive, giving Argentina a 2-1 lead in extra time. The Atlético Madrid forward keeps opposing defenses on their toes with his pace and is clinical in front of goal. His high-pressing style from the start of today’s match could unsettle England’s defense and force costly mistakes in build-up play.
Declan Rice (0 goals, 1 assist): Like Álvarez, Declan Rice doesn’t boast a large tally of goals or assists, but his role could prove decisive in such a high-stakes match. His primary responsibility will be to shield England’s defense and help launch attacks from deep. Rice’s success today will hinge on disrupting Argentina’s passing rhythm and containing Messi’s influence in midfield.
