England vs. Argentina: Messi’s First-Ever Match Against England at the 2026 World Cup

What’s Happening?

Imagine two old school rivals meeting again after a long time — that’s what’s going on here!

• England and Argentina are two famous soccer countries with a big history of competition.
• They will play each other in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals.
• The game is on Wednesday at Atlanta Stadium.
• For the first time ever, Lionel Messi (Argentina’s superstar player) will be part of this rivalry.

Important Point: Messi has NEVER played a match against England’s men’s national team — not even a friendly (practice) game — since he started playing for Argentina in 2005!

Why Has Messi Never Played England?

It might sound weird, but it’s true. Here’s why:

• Messi joined Argentina’s main team in 2005.
• He almost played England in a friendly game that same year — his second ever game for Argentina.
• But in his very first game (against Hungary), he got a red card (sent off) after only 43 seconds.
• Because of that, he had to sit out the next game against England.
• Argentina lost that England match 3–2 while Messi watched from the sidelines.

When Else Could They Have Met?

After 2005, the two teams just didn’t cross paths much. Here’s the timeline:

• Their last planned competitive game was at the 2002 World Cup (before Messi played), where David Beckham scored a famous penalty for England.
• In the 2022 World Cup, England and Argentina were both doing well.
  • They could have met in the final.
  • But England lost to France 2–1 in the quarterfinals, so it didn’t happen.

How to Watch the Big Game

Messi’s first match against England is a huge deal! Here’s how you can watch:

1. Date: Wednesday (2026 World Cup semifinal)
2. Time: 3 p.m. ET
3. Channel: FOX and FOX One
4. Location: Atlanta Stadium

Important Point: A win means a spot in the World Cup final — so both teams will fight hard!

Summary

England and Argentina will replay their historic rivalry in the 2026 World Cup semifinals. Amazingly, Lionel Messi has never faced England in his long career — mostly because of a red card in 2005 and the teams not meeting since. Now, for the first time, Messi will play England, with a World Cup final spot on the line. Tune in Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET on FOX and FOX One!

FAQ

1. Why did Messi miss the 2005 game vs England?
He got a red card 43 seconds into his first Argentina game vs Hungary, so he was suspended for the next match.

2. Have England and Argentina played each other recently?
Not really. Their last competitive meeting was the 2002 World Cup, and they haven’t faced off at the international level since the 2005 friendly Messi missed.

3. What happens if Argentina or England win?
The winner goes to the 2026 World Cup final!

4. Where can I watch the match?
You can watch on FOX and FOX One at 3 p.m. ET on Wednesday.