Lionel Messi says Argentina's FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal against England will be "a special match" as the defending champions prepare for a blockbuster clash. Speaking after Argentina's quarterfinal victory, Messi reflected on the physical demands of the tournament and looked ahead to facing England for the first time in a World Cup. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez described the semifinal as a "classic" that everyone wants to watch, while Julián Álvarez said he was pleased to contribute as Argentina continued its title defence.