Argentina: Lionel Messi already fired up to face England

15.07.26 FT World Cup

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Last night, Argentina punched their ticket to the quarter-finals of this 2026 World Cup after overcoming Switzerland. That sets up a showdown with England next Wednesday.

Fired up, Argentina's captain Lionel Messi can’t wait for the clash.

"Playing against England is special because they're a great team. It's the first time I'll face them—I've played against everyone else except them, so it will be something new. You have to savor what this is: a World Cup semi-final against a top side. We need to be in the best possible shape to stay competitive. We've put in a huge effort already, and sometimes you can feel it. But we'll prepare for this," said the Inter Miami playmaker in the mixed zone.

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.

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