Messi faces England for first time in World Cup semi-final

Lionel Messi is set to face England for the first time in his illustrious career when Argentina plays in the World Cup semi-final on Wednesday.

The 39-year-old Argentinian great has earned 200 caps for his country but has never competed against the Three Lions. Messi dreams of leading Argentina to the final once again, aiming to replicate the success of the Qatar World Cup four years ago.

Messi's international career began in 2005, and his debut match was against Hungary. His early career saw an ignominious red card just 90 seconds after entering the field. This incident led to a suspension for a friendly against England in Geneva three months later, marking the last time the nations were scheduled to meet until now.

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An 18-year-old kid who is making his debut for the national team and has so much hope -- he can't be punished like that. The referee needed to be more understanding.

"I have played against everyone except England and it is special because they are a major nation, a powerhouse, and it is always nice to play against a side like that, especially in a World Cup semi-final," Messi stated after Argentina's quarter-final victory over Switzerland.

With 21 goals in a record 32 World Cup appearances, Messi has scored more goals in the tournament than any other player, surpassing Kylian Mbappe by one after the quarter-finals. Argentina is now one match away from reaching their third World Cup final in four tournaments, with the potential to become the first team to retain the trophy since Brazil in 1962.

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I have played against everyone except England and it is special because they are a major nation, a powerhouse, and it is always nice to play against a side like that, especially in a World Cup semi-final.