Jonathan Lingham, a professional Lionel Messi lookalike from Oldham, has backed England to defeat Argentina in the World Cup semi-final on Wednesday night, ending the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner's tournament journey. Lingham, 51, predicts a 2-1 victory for the Three Lions after extra time, with Jude Bellingham scoring a header.
Prediction and Analysis
Speaking to the Daily Star, Lingham said: "I think it's going to be 1-1 and then into extra time I think Bellingham's going to score a header. 2-1, end of. Bye Messi, bye Argentina." He urged England players to use their height advantage to out-muscle Messi, noting that the Argentine star is "not that tall." Lingham added: "Just do what you can. Do what it takes. Just bring it home. Unfortunately for Messi his day's going to be up – because England's going to win."
From Barber Shop to Lookalike Agency
Lingham revealed that his resemblance to Messi emerged after he lost about 3 stone (19 kg). He said: "I used to work in a barber shop. Everyone was saying it in a barber shop and when I went out to the pub." After strangers began asking for selfies, he signed up with a lookalike agency. During a trip to Wembley Stadium, tourists mistook him for the real Messi, and some Brits were "almost convinced he was the 'Messiah' himself."
Banter with Ronaldo Fans
Lingham, a Manchester United fan, enjoys the "banter" his resemblance brings, particularly from Cristiano Ronaldo supporters. He said: "I get a lot of Ronaldo fans saying 'Ronaldo's better.' Maybe he's not. I'm a United fan. I love Ronaldo. So if you're reading Ronaldo, love you man."
