Lionel Messi takes on England for the very first time in the semi-finals of World Cup 2026.
Reigning champions Argentina and the Three Lions clash at the Atlanta Stadium on Wednesday evening.
This is the first meeting between the two fierce international rivals on this stage since 2002, and the first overall in nearly 21 years!
A dramatic and memorable night awaits us from the state of Georgia, and below is our full semi-final preview, with sports betting tips and the latest World Cup odds.
And if you want to boost your odds on a wager for this match, remember you can combine multiple markets into a single bet with NetBet’s Bet Builder feature.
Where can I watch England vs Argentina in the UK?
England vs Argentina will be broadcast live on BBC One, with kick-off scheduled for 8pm UK time.
England vs Argentina Preview
Recent results
Argentina’s path to the semi-finals has been littered with drama. The South Americans required extra-time to beat Cape Verde 3-2, before coming from 2-0 down to defeat Egypt 3-2 in an absolute thriller. The world champions were taken to extra-time in the quarter-finals by Switzerland, but eventually won 3-1 and secured a place in the semis.
England’s route has not exactly been plain sailing either. The Three Lions came from 1-0 down to beat DR Congo 2-1 in the Round of 32 courtesy of a Harry Kane brace, before defeating co-hosts Mexico 3-2 at the Azteca in one of the World Cup’s most memorable clashes. Thomas Tuchel’s men then won 2-1 vs Norway after extra-time in the quarter-finals, with Jude Bellingham once again the goal-scoring hero by netting his second consecutive brace.
Head-to-head record
England and Argentina have one of the most iconic rivalries in the football world, despite only meeting on 14 previous occasions.
The 1986 World Cup quarter-final clash remains one of the tournament’s standout games due to Diego Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ and stunning solo goal, which secured a 2-1 win for the South Americans.
La Albiceleste also won on penalties when the two nations met in the Round of 16 at France ‘98, a contest best remembered for David Beckham’s red card after kicking out at Diego Simeone.
England and Argentina then locked horns again at World Cup 2002, with Beckham getting revenge somewhat by converting a first-half penalty to secure a 1-0 group-stage victory.
The last meeting was a 2005 international friendly in Geneva, which the Three Lions won 3-2 thanks to a late brace from Michael Owen.
So it is a rivalry which has been bubbling nicely for nearly 21 years…
Team news
Jarell Quansah is still suspended for England following his red card vs Mexico, so Tuchel has to pick from Ezri Konsa, Reece James and Djed Spence for the right-back berth. Declan Rice should be fit to start after recovering from illness, while Bukayo Saka looks nailed on to come in for club team-mate Noni Madueke – who really struggled in the first half vs Norway.
Lionel Scaloni has a fully-fit Argentina squad to pick from, but has to select only one of Julian Alvarez or Lautaro Martinez to partner Messi in attack – with both strikers scoring in extra-time vs Switzerland.
England vs Argentina Odds
*All odds are subject to change
England are slight favourites ahead of kick-off at a price of 2.60. A victory for Argentina is at odds of 2.95, while the draw after 90 minutes is 2.84.
England vs Argentina Betting Tips
Both teams to score – Yes @ 1.85
It is fair to say both of these nations are stronger in attack compared to defence, so the BTTS market looks an outstanding pre-match pick. It has landed in each of Argentina’s last four matches, as well as England’s previous three.
Player to score or assist – Lionel Messi @ 1.87
Messi has scored or assisted in every single game at World Cup 2026 thus far – and we just cannot see that changing here. England kept Erling Haaland at bay, but Messi’s creativity, guile and clinical edge makes him another matter entirely. Furthermore, he is Argentina’s designated set-piece taker, which only enhances his appeal in this market.
Player to score or assist – Jude Bellingham @ 2.77
Bellingham has been the driving force behind England’s run to the semi-finals. The Real Madrid midfielder has six goals and one assist from six appearances, including match-deciding braces against both Mexico and Norway. He is embracing the responsibility placed on shoulders by Tuchel, and an Argentina side lacking speed and energy in certain areas may struggle to contain him.
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