Messi Mania: Cheer Argentina in the World Cup Semifinal with Must-Have Gear

July 15, 2026, 3:00 p.m. ET

What’s Happening Right Now

The whole world is watching soccer (called football in most countries) as Lionel Messi tries again to win big at the World Cup. Fans are getting ready to celebrate every goal and special moment from Argentina’s amazing journey.

Here are the quick facts:

• Lionel Messi and Argentina are getting ready to play England in a World Cup semifinal match (a semifinal is a game to decide who goes to the final).
• This article shows different Messi-themed items fans can buy.
• The semifinal is happening today, July 15, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

Editor’s note: You can follow live updates from the Argentina vs. England World Cup showdown!

Why Messi Is a Big Deal

Messi is already called the GOAT. That means "Greatest of All Time" — like the best ever at something.

• He is the all-time leading goalscorer in men’s World Cup history.
• He has scored 21 goals across six World Cup tournaments.

Now, Messi and the reigning champions (the team that won last time) are facing England in a super-exciting World Cup semifinal at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta today, Wednesday, July 15 at 3 p.m. ET. A spot in the final is on the line (meaning the winner gets to play for the championship).

To celebrate, fans can get the ultimate Messi gear (cool stuff with his name or picture on it).

• SHOP: Get a Lionel Messi World Cup record-setting goal print.
• NEWSLETTER: Sign up to get all the World Cup highlights sent to your inbox.

10 Must-Have Messi Gear Picks

We found 10 fun things for fans of Messi, who wears number 10. These include his famous sneakers, an old-style jersey from 2006, and even a book for kids.

Whether you are watching the semifinal, hosting a party to watch the game, or adding to your soccer stuff, these picks help you celebrate the legend (a famous person like Messi) in style.

1. Messi Shoes – Samba Messi Sneakers

• adidas Samba Messi sneakers
• Step into Messi’s iconic Samba sneakers with 3-Stripes, adidas’ signature leather top, and a grippy rubber bottom.
• Get now at adidas.

2. Messi Jersey – Argentina 2006 World Cup Home Jersey

• adidas Argentina 2006 World Cup Home Jersey
• Get the GOAT’s Argentina Home Jersey, a throwback to Messi’s iconic 2006 World Cup jersey.
• Get now at adidas.
• More: Argentina World Cup jerseys are in high demand, here’s what you can buy.

3. Messi Cleats – F50 Messi Pro Firm Ground Soccer Cleats

• adidas F50 Messi Pro Firm Ground Soccer Cleats
• These new cleats (special shoes for playing soccer) are made for players who want to be quick and precise like Messi. They are light and have a soft upper part for comfort and support on the field.
• Get now at adidas.

4. Lionel Messi World Cup 2026 Print (Framed)

• Lionel Messi World Cup Goal-Scoring Record Framed Page Print
• This framed collectible page print celebrates the moment Messi became the all-time leading scorer in World Cup history. It makes a timeless keepsake for Messi, Argentina, and soccer fans.
• Get Lionel Messi Framed print.
• More: Lionel Messi made World Cup history, now fans can celebrate properly.

5. Lionel Messi 10ft Outdoor Inflatable

• Lowe’s Lionel Messi 10ft Lighted Outdoor Inflatable
• Cheer on Messi in the World Cup with this 10-foot inflatable (a big blow-up decoration), featuring Messi in a blue Lowe’s uniform holding a soccer ball.
• Get now at Lowe’s.

6. Messi World Cup Plush

• Lionel Messi World Cup plush
• Bring home the excitement of the World Cup with this ultra-soft Messi plush toy with a chibi-inspired design (a cute, small-style look).
• Get now at Etsy.

7. Messi Illustrated Book for Kids

• The Soccer Adventure of Messi Illustrated book for kids
• Inspire young readers with this beautifully illustrated children’s book that shares Messi’s remarkable journey while teaching lessons about determination, hard work, and believing in your dreams.
• Get now at Amazon.

8. Messi Snapback Cap

• adidas Lionel Messi Snapback Cap
• The Messi Snapback Cap has an embroidered logo on the front and an adjustable back for a comfortable fit.
• Get now at adidas.
• More: Lionel Messi opens 2026 World Cup with hat trick, shop his entire adidas collection.

9. Messi Hoodie

• adidas Messi Hoodie
• This Messi hoodie is made for relaxing at home or cheering on the sidelines. It’s made with soft fleece and ribbed cuffs.
• Get now at adidas.

10. Messi Unframed Collectible World Cup Print

• Lionel Messi World Cup 2026 Goal-Scoring Record Page Print (Unframed)
• Get the unframed collectible page print, featuring Messi’s record goal-scoring photo and coverage of one of soccer’s greatest milestones.
• Get Lionel Messi unframed print.
• More: Turn your home into the ultimate 2026 World Cup fan zone.

When Does Messi Play Next?

Messi plays next for Argentina today, Wednesday, July 15 at 3 p.m. ET at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

Argentina’s Semifinal Opponent

Argentina is taking on England in its highly anticipated semifinal match of the 2026 World Cup. The winner advances to the final (the last game to decide the champion).

When Is the FIFA World Cup Final?

The 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup:

1. Started on Thursday, June 11.
2. Will run until Sunday, July 19.
3. The first game took place in Mexico.
4. The tournament will end with the finals just outside New York City.

Important Point: The semifinal is TODAY (July 15, 3 p.m. ET) — don’t miss Messi vs. England!

Summary

Today, July 15 at 3 p.m. ET, Lionel Messi and Argentina play England in a World Cup semifinal in Atlanta. Messi is the all-time top male World Cup scorer with 21 goals. To join the fun, fans can buy 10 cool Messi items — from sneakers and jerseys to plush toys and kids’ books. The World Cup started June 11 and ends July 19 near New York City.

FAQ

1. Who is Lionel Messi?
Messi is a famous soccer player from Argentina. He is called the GOAT (Greatest of All Time) and is the top male goalscorer in World Cup history with 21 goals.

2. When and where is the Argentina vs. England semifinal?
It is today, Wednesday, July 15 at 3 p.m. ET at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

3. What kind of Messi gear can I buy?
You can buy sneakers, a 2006 jersey, cleats, framed or unframed prints, a 10-foot inflatable, a plush toy, a kids’ book, a cap, and a hoodie.

4. When does the 2026 World Cup end?
It ends on Sunday, July 19, with the final just outside New York City.

5. What does "semifinal" mean?
A semifinal is a game where the winner moves on to the final, which is the last match to decide the champion.