Messi Clash Was Just Talk About a Foul, Says Bellingham

Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham has dismissed claims of a heated argument with Lionel Messi during England's 2-1 World Cup semifinal defeat to Argentina. Bellingham clarified that the on-field incident, which occurred early in the match, was merely a discussion about a foul.

"We were actually talking about a foul. Nothing bad happened," Bellingham stated. "I'm sure everyone will blow this out of proportion, but there was nothing really. I felt there was a foul before, and he said, 'What about the foul on me?' And I said, 'You're strong enough to deal with it.'"

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We were actually talking about a foul. Nothing bad happened. I'm sure everyone will blow this out of proportion, but there was nothing really. I felt there was a foul before, and he said, 'What about the foul on me?' And I said, 'You're strong enough to deal with it.'

Despite the loss, which extended England's 1966 World Cup drought, Bellingham described the opportunity to share the pitch with the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner as a special moment. "But nothing. It's an honor to play against him. Of course, I was on the losing side and it hurts, but it's still an honor to play against him," he added.

Messi was instrumental in Argentina's comeback, providing assists for Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez after England had taken an early second-half lead through Anthony Gordon. Argentina now advances to face Spain in the final.

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But nothing. It's an honor to play against him. Of course, I was on the losing side and it hurts, but it's still an honor to play against him.