Lionel Messi is expected to be fit to face England in tonight’s World Cup 2026 semi-final despite taking a knock in Argentina’s quarter-final victory over Switzerland. The Albiceleste required extra-time to dispatch the Swiss 3-1, but concern arose in the second half when Messi, who has scored or assisted ten of Argentina’s 17 goals at this World Cup, needed treatment for an apparent eye injury.
Messi's Injury and Recovery
Messi accidentally took a blow to the face from Granit Xhaka, which appeared to draw blood. However, after a brief moment to compose himself, he was cleared by a physio during the next hydration break and continued playing. He completed the full 120 minutes and is expected to start against England, marking the first time he will face the Three Lions.
Argentina’s path to the semi-finals included hard-fought wins over Cape Verde and Egypt. Coach Lionel Scaloni fielded an unchanged side against Switzerland, but the demands of the tournament may force adjustments.
Potential Lineup Changes
Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez have been the preferred central defensive pairing since Facundo Medina’s injury. However, Romero appeared exhausted and was substituted at half-time of extra-time against Switzerland, opening the door for Medina to start. Full-backs Nahuel Molina and Nicolas Tagliafico were both replaced before the 90 minutes ended and are expected to be fresh enough to start.
In attack, Julian Alvarez and Messi both played the entirety of the Switzerland match and have formed a productive partnership. Lautaro Martinez remains a ready substitute if either needs a rest. Enzo Fernandez, who did not feature in extra-time against Switzerland, should retain his role as Argentina’s No.10. Rodrigo De Paul and Leandro Paredes also rested during extra-time.
Alexis Mac Allister may be given a rest after playing three consecutive full matches, but Scaloni’s willingness to trust substitutes like Nico Paz remains uncertain, as the youngster has yet to appear in the knockout rounds.
Predicted Argentina XI and Match Details
Predicted Argentina XI vs England (4-1-2-1-2): E. Martinez; Molina, Medina, Lisandro Martinez, Tagliafico; Paredes; De Paul, Mac Allister; Fernandez; Julian Alvarez, Messi.
The match will be broadcast on BBC One at 8pm BST today, Wednesday, July 15, at Atlanta Stadium.
