The 39-year-old, who wore the number 10 shirt for Argentina, announced his retirement from the national side on Monday.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner’s final game for his country, who he captained to World Cup glory in Qatar in 2022, was the 2026 World Cup final defeat by Spain in July.

“In tribute and homage to Lionel Messi’s career with the Argentina national team, at the 10th minute of play in all matches the referees will stop the game and a general minute of applause will be held,” the Argentine Football Association said.

“We look forward to seeing you on the fields – join us in this recognition!”

Messi, who is Argentina’s appearances record holder with 207 caps, first retired from international football in 2016 before reversing his decision.

That followed a defeat by Chile in the Copa America final, in which he missed a penalty in the shootout as Argentina lost a fourth major final in nine years.

The former Barcelona forward went win the World Cup and two Copa America titles with Argentina, scoring a record 125 goals.

Messi made his international debut in 2005 as a 63rd-minute substitute in a 2-1 friendly win over Hungary.

Having moved to Barcelona’s La Masia academy as a 13-year-old, Messi has never played senior club football in his native country.

He is the second-highest goalscorer in World Cup history, with 21, behind France’s Kylian Mbappe (22), and second for goals in all internationals (125) behind his great rival, Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo (146).

In August, he said he was considering his future in football after the death of his father, Jorge, who died aged 68 following a long illness.

When he announced his retirement from international football, he said following his dad’s death he was “even more convinced than before” that he was making the right decision.

He will continue to play in Major League Soccer with Inter Miami, where he has a contract that runs to the end of the 2028 season.

The 39-year-old, who is signed with Inter Miami until 2028, announced on Monday his successful time with Argentina had come to an end after more than 20 years.

Messi said he was considering his future in football following the death of his father, Jorge, earlier this month.

In an emotional tribute to his dad, he hinted at retirement as he said: “I don’t know how to carry on. I used to just play football, and now I’m really not sure if I’ll carry on doing it for much longer.”

And now he has made public his decision to call time on his international career in a post on Instagram, saying: “Time is running short, chapters come to a close, and this is one that hurts me deeply.”

World Cup winner Messi scored 125 goals in 207 appearances, making him the country’s all-time leading scorer and most-capped player.

He has also scored a combined 921 goals for Barcelona, Paris St-Germain, Inter Miami and Argentina.

BBC Sport looks at some of the most iconic moments of his remarkable career.

First hat-trick as teenager shows talent

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Image caption: Messi scored three Clasico equalisers for his first hat-trick

Messi’s first career hat-trick came in one of the biggest fixtures in football – El Clasico.

At the age of 19, he scored all of Barcelona’s goals in a 3-3 draw against rivals Real Madrid on 10 March 2007 – his first at the Camp Nou – including a brilliant last-minute finish after beating a couple of defenders.

This was arguably the moment he became a household name.

Sublime solo strike sparks Maradona memories

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Image caption: Messi has scored many outstanding goals but probably none as good as his dribble and finish against Getafe

Just over a month after that hat-trick, Messi scored a goal he has probably never surpassed in the rest of his glorious career.

It came in a 5-2 win over Getafe in the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg on 18 April 2007.

In a strike with remarkable similarities to compatriot Diego Maradona’s (non-handball) effort against England in the 1986 World Cup, Messi picked the ball up in his own half, beat about five defenders, went around the goalkeeper and slotted home.

First Champions League final goal

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Image caption: Messi did not score many headers – but he picked a good occasion to net one in the 2009 Champions League final against Manchester United

Ridiculous as it sounds now, back in 2009 some English football fans and journalists questioned whether Messi could do it against English opponents in Europe – having failed to net in 10 Champions League appearances against Premier League sides.

But there were no more doubts when Messi rose highest in the box to head home Xavi’s cross in his first Champions League final against Manchester United – and the first game billed as Messi v Cristiano Ronaldo.

Two years later he would score in another final win over Sir Alex Ferguson’s men to claim the third of his four Champions League winners’ medals.

Hitting four past Arsenal

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Image caption: Messi scored four or more goals on seven different occasions for Barcelona

Messi scored four goals for the first time in his career as he took Arsenal to the cleaners in the 2010 Champions League quarter-final for a 4-1 home-leg win.

The pick of the bunch was his chip over keeper Manuel Almunia to complete his hat-trick.

An honourable mention goes to his five-goal haul two years later against Bayer Leverkusen in a 7-1 last-16 success.

He is the second top scorer in Champions League history with 129, behind Ronaldo.

Breaking Barcelona’s scoring record

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Image caption: Messi is 446 goals clear of anyone else in Barcelona’s scoring charts

Messi broke Barcelona’s goalscoring record – aged just 24 – in some style with a hat-trick in a 5-3 victory over Granada on 20 March 2012.

He equalled Cesar Rodriguez’s 60-year-old record of 232 goals with his first, broke it with his second and extended the record with a third.

By the time he left Barcelona in 2021, he had extended that mark to 672 goals.

A record 91 goals in a year

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Image caption: Messi scored 1.3 goals per game in 2012

A stat so amazing you have to go back to double-check to make sure it really happened.

In 2012 Messi hit his 91st goal of the year in Barcelona’s 3-1 win at Real Valladolid on 22 December.

It earned him a place in the Guinness Book of Records.

He netted 79 goals for Barcelona and 12 for Argentina – in a total of 69 games for club and country.

It was enough to earn Messi a then-unprecedented fourth consecutive Ballon d’Or – even though he only won the Copa del Rey in 2012 for all those goals.

New La Liga scoring record

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Image caption: Messi broke the La Liga scoring record – and would go on to hit more than 200 further Spanish top-flight goals

This was the second major record Messi broke with a hat-trick.

He hit three in a 5-1 win over Sevilla on 22 November 2014 to become the top scorer in La Liga’s history.

Messi equalled Telmo Zarra’s 251-goal mark – set in 1955 by the Athletic Club forward – with a free-kick, before breaking it and stretching it with a third.

He ended up on 474 goals, far clear of Ronaldo’s 311 for Real Madrid.

A 500th Barcelona goal – and in another El Clasico

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Image caption: This was one of Messi’s most famous celebrations

All the narratives seemed to come together in Barcelona’s 3-2 win at Real Madrid on 23 April 2017.

Messi popped up with an injury-time goal, sweeping home a first-time shot from the edge of the area. It was an El Clásico winner, his 500th Barcelona goal, and it sent his side top of the table – although Real would go on to win the league at the end of that season.

For good measure, he pulled out an iconic celebration when he took off his shirt and held it out so the Bernabeu faithful could see his name.

Tears at end of 21-year Barcelona stay

The almost unthinkable happened in August 2021 as Messi left Barcelona on a free transfer.

After 21 years, 672 goals and 35 trophies, he had to leave because the club could not afford to honour the new contract they agreed because of La Liga’s salary limit.

In an emotional news conference, a tearful Messi said: “My family and I were convinced we were going to stay here, at home.

“I don’t want to leave this club – it’s a club I love and this is a moment I didn’t expect.”

Despite being linked with Manchester City, he joined Paris St-Germain.

First international trophy with Argentina

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Image caption: Messi has won three major internatioanl trophies – all after the age of 34

On 11 July, 2021, Messi – at the age of 34 – won his first senior international trophy as Argentina beat Brazil 1-0 in the Copa America final at the Maracana.

He was named player of the tournament after scoring four goals.

An emotional Messi fell to the ground as the full-time whistle blew and was thrown in the air by his team-mates as they celebrated.

He won his second Copa America three years later.

World Cup triumph & best player award

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Image caption: Messi finally won the World Cup in 2022 – and was named the tournament’s best player

It was a triumph and moment that looked like it would never happen, with Messi having previously retired from international football before coming back.

It was always the thing held against him in debates about whether he was the greatest footballer of all time.

Messi scored two goals, and his effort in the 2022 shootout, as Argentina beat France on penalties after a 3-3 draw in the best World Cup final ever.

He was named player of the tournament, having netted seven times – including efforts in each knockout round.

A record eighth Ballon d’Or

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Image caption: Messi was an Inter Miami player when he won his last Ballon d’Or

Messi won another two Ballons d’Or after leaving Barcelona – one at Paris St-Germain and one at Inter Miami – to extend his record haul to eight.

His last one came in October 2023 after he won the World Cup and helped his Major League Soccer side lift the Leagues Cup for their first trophy.

“I couldn’t imagine having the career I’ve had and everything I’ve achieved, the fortune I’ve had to be part of the best team in history,” he said.

“All of them [Ballon d’Or awards] are special for different reasons.”

The World Cup’s top scorer – albeit briefly

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Image caption: Messi played a key role in Argentina’s World Cup semi-final win against England

With 2026 now his last World Cup, Messi certainly went out in style.

His eight goals in the tournament took him to 21 in the World Cup – more than anyone has ever scored, until Mbappe went past that tally to 22 in the Bronze Final defeat by England.

Aged 39, Messi’s World Cup may have ended in disappointment – as Argentina lost to Spain in the final – but individually it was another month on football’s biggest stage few will forget.

The 39-year-old played his final match for his country in the 2026 World Cup final, when Argentina lost to Spain.

Shortly after, his father, Jorge, passed away after a long illness. 

The former Barcelona and PSG forward added that he wrote a statement two days after the final, but following the death of his father, it convinced him further to retire from international duty.

In a statement on Instagram, Messi wrote: “After the time that has passed since the final, and after giving it a lot of thought, I want to let everyone know that I am retiring from the national team…

“It was a decision that hurt – and still hurts deep down – but I understand that the time has come. I swear to you that I always gave it my all – not just in these last few years when we won everything, but before that too; I always fought and left everything on the field for this jersey, to bring you joy and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football.

“Time is running short, chapters come to a close, and this is one that hurts me deeply. I love, have loved, and will always love being part of the national team. I’ve given everything I had; I have nothing left to give, and besides, there are some great young players coming up who deserve to be here.

“Thank you for all the affection over these past 20 years. I will miss hearing you from the pitch so much. Now I’ll be just one of you, cheering and supporting from the outside (through the good times and the bad—especially the bad).

“Thank you to my family for always being there, for accompanying me on this journey—so beautiful, yet so difficult. Thank you to every coach, teammate, and official I’ve shared this path with. I take with me unforgettable memories and moments.

“I leave with the peace of mind and pride of having given you -alongside my teammates – moments we once only dreamed of. It was an incredible experience to live this with you all. I love you!

“Thank you, God, for making me Argentine. Let’s go, Argentina!

Fifa’s disciplinary committee has also handed his team-mate Nahuel Molina a seven-match suspension.

Argentina have also been ordered to play their next two home matches with 50% capacity, though one match of that sanction is suspended.

The Argentinian Football Association (AFA) has been fined $321,000 (£235,000) for breaches of the Fifa disciplinary code relating to using a sports event for demonstrations of a non-sporting nature, team misconduct, and discriminatory chants and gestures by its supporters.

Fifa have ordered that $100,000 (£73,000) of the fine must be invested in a plan to combat discrimination – and $100,000 (£73,000) of the fine is suspended, with a probationary period to apply.

After defeating England 2-1 in the World Cup semi-final, several Argentina players held up a banner claiming Argentine sovereignty over the Falkland Islands, a British overseas territory.

Last month, Fifa appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to assess what happened after the final whistle at the New York New Jersey Stadium, when multiple Argentina players and backroom staff were involved in altercations with Spain players.

As well as their suspensions, Paredes and Molina will both pay fines of $90,000 (£66,000).

Paredes grabbed Eric Garcia by the throat and wrestled Spain’s Gavi to the ground, before appearing to strike the latter in the face.

Gavi – who said he did not think Paredes should be punished – will serve a one-match suspension and pay a fine of $30,000 (£22,000) for his part in the post-match confrontations, as will Argentina’s Thiago Almada.

Roberto Ayala, a member of Argentina’s coaching staff, has been given a three-match suspension and a fine of $30,000 for striking Spain’s Dani Olmo in the face.

The match suspensions will only be enforced in international fixtures.

The AFA said it will appeal the sanctions, and if unsuccessful will take its case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

The Mexican Football Federation (FMF), co-hosts of the recently concluded World Cup, has broken ranks with its own regional confederation by backing Infantino after CONCACAF called for a “comprehensive reckoning” with his presidency.

On Thursday, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) unanimously backed Infantino’s leadership, but European soccer’s governing body UEFA said it remained committed to ​boycotting the World Cup and other FIFA competitions.

Asia’s confederation said it “stood in solidarity” with UEFA and CONCACAF, which runs football ​in North and Central America as well as the Caribbean.

However, South America’s CONMEBOL issued a statement on Thursday ⁠rejecting any attempt to oust Infantino that did not involve a vote of all 211 members.

Mexico’s federation echoed those sentiments.

“The FMF will ​neither recognise nor approve any process convened outside of that institutional framework, and it joins the call made … by President Infantino to collectively ​continue developing football for the benefit of the 211 member associations,” it said in a statement.

“The FMF supports President Infantino’s leadership in continuing to promote the development of football through institutional strengthening.”

Following a meeting in Rabat this week, FIFA said it had apologised to its members for mistakes around the proposal to sell ​a slice of the World Cup’s commercial future.

It also pledged to review the processes that led to the controversy.

AFA ACKNOWLEDGES FIFA ERRORS

The fallout ​from the proposal has cast a shadow over Infantino’s bid for reelection for a fourth term at the FIFA Congress in Morocco in March, which had ‌looked like ⁠a foregone conclusion two months ago.

No clear candidate to stand against Infantino in March’s election has yet emerged, however, and the Swiss administrator still enjoys considerable support, including on Thursday from 2022 world champions Argentina.

In a letter to Infantino, Argentina’s football association (AFA) expressed its support for FIFA’s work over the last 10 years, saying it had “centred on the development of soccer worldwide and institutional strength based on a ​clear, stable, and transparent governance model”.

While ​the AFA acknowledged that the ⁠proposal generated far more uncertainties than certainties and that errors had been made, it said that the way forward was to continue working under FIFA’s leadership ahead of next year’s Congress.

CONMEBOL’s earlier statement ​expressed concerns over the “repeated unilateral actions taken without resorting to dialogue,” stressing the importance of institutional reforms ​FIFA introduced more ⁠than a decade ago to promote transparency.

The Croatian Football Federation were among the individual national associations to withdraw support for Infantino, following similar moves from England and Albania.

“This decision followed a thorough reassessment within the federation in light of recent developments surrounding the FIFA World Cup 2026 and ⁠discussions within ​our governing bodies,” Croatia’s federation said.

On Thursday, players’ union FIFPRO said Infantino’s proposal ​was not just a governance failure but a “profound abuse of presidential power”.

FIFA has said that all actions taken over the commercial rights proposal complied with its regulations and ​stressed that mistakes related to process and communication rather than breaches of governance rules.

Bidding for their first World Cup final since 1966, England took the lead in a tense affair in Atlanta through a 55th-minute Anthony Gordon finish.

But with Thomas Tuchel’s side sitting deep, Argentina struck in the 85th and 92nd minutes to break English hearts and claim a 2-1 win.

The victory came 40 years after Argentina’s previous big World Cup win over England in the controversial quarter-final victory at the 1986 tournament.

After Argentina’s latest win the political tensions surrounding the fixture were fuelled as some of their players celebrated while holding a banner reading “Las Malvinas son Argentinas”, which translates as “The Falklands are Argentine”.

The Falklands, a British Overseas Territory in the south-west Atlantic Ocean, remain the subject of a sovereignty dispute between the UK and Argentina.

Argentina, ruled at the time by a military junta led by General Leopoldo Galtieri, invaded the islands, situated 300 miles off Argentina’s east coast, in 1982.

The conflict, which lasted for 74 days between April and June 1982, led to the deaths of 655 Argentine and 255 British servicemen. Three people from the islands also died.

In a 2013 referendum, 99.8% of Falkland Islanders voted to remain a UK territory.

Argentina went on to lose 1-0 to Spain in the 2026 final, while England beat France 6-4 to claim third place.

“I hope I get some pictures standing next to Messi,” said Sidny Lopes Cabral before sharing a stage with football’s VIP of VIPs.

The photographers pocketed him that prize. The Rotterdammer’s right boot earned him an even bigger one as Cabo Verdean dwarves duelled Argentinian titans at the FIFA World Cup 2026™. After tricking his way inside Alexis Mac Allister in ‘Magic City’, Lopes Cabral opulently curled the ball into Emiliano Martinez’s top corner to make it 2-2 in an extra-time thriller in the Round of 32.

It has now been crowned the Hyundai Goal of the Tournament, beating glorious golazos from Uzbekistan’s Eldor Shomurodov and Wilson Isidor of Haiti into second and third. Lopes Cabral succeeded Maxi Rodriguez, Diego Forlan, James Rodriguez, Benjamin Pavard and Richarlison in seizing the award. “The moment I dribbled past my opponent, I saw an opening and thought, ‘Let’s have a go’,” said the man whose parents were born on the Archipelagic African utopia. “I shoot well with both feet. I saw the space and was eyeing the top corner. I aimed there and struck the ball really well.

“When I looked up and saw it heading for that top corner, I thought, ‘What the hell did I just do?’ I couldn’t believe it. I looked at my team-mates – everyone was screaming, hands on their heads, overjoyed. “I started running without thinking. Then it hit me that I’d scored a spectacular goal in the World Cup. Everybody dreams of just scoring in the World Cup, but to score in this way, at such a big stage against such a big team, was amazing. I was really happy.”

Sixty-five thousand inside Miami Stadium – and the masses watching around the world – witnessed that euphoria en route to a heroic 3-2 defeat. As Lopes Cabral sprinted uncontrollably, his mother, Teresa, lost consciousness! “Before the game, I’d told my mom and my girlfriend that if I scored, I’d run over to them,” he explained. “When I got there, I saw my mom crying; she hadn’t even realised I was right there. Everyone was busy tending to her because she had fainted when I scored!”

Lilian Thuram’s mother famously fainted after watching her son score his second against Croatia in the 1998 World Cup semi-finals, and Lopes Cabral emulated another France full-back, Benjamin Pavard, in becoming the second player of his position – an unusual one in wonder-goal wars – to conquer. One voter was another full-back of Brazil and Real Madrid royalty. “After the game, I got a message from Marcelo,” the 23-year-old explained.

“He’s one of my biggest idols. I always admired him. He’s a left-back, plays with both feet, and has great technique. “He told me he voted for my goal as the best of the tournament! I replied, ‘Thank you so much! I don’t know how to thank you. I’m so excited and honoured that you saw me play.’ And he said, ‘It was a pleasure watching you play; you’re really good.’ I was just like, ‘My word!’ I couldn’t believe it when I got his message.”

Lopes Cabral’s career ascent has been equally unbelievable. Three years ago, he was playing in the German fifth division and using bin bags as makeshift curtains. His rags-to-riches biopic now has an enrapturing epilogue: one of football’s most prestigious prizes.

Argentina players Paredes, Nahuel Molina and Thiago Almada plus assistant coach Roberto Ayala all appeared to be involved in the fracas on the pitch as Spain celebrated their 1-0 win.

Paredes seemed to push Spain’s Eric Garcia by the throat and unused substitute Gavi tried to intervene but was forced to the ground by Almada.

Paredes pushed the Barcelona midfielder to the turf by putting his hand in the Spaniard’s face.

Fifa has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to assess what happened and any player or coach involved could receive a suspension while the Argentine Football Association could also be fined.

“I don’t think [Paredes] should be suspended,” Gavi told El Partidazo de COPE.

“I understand it’s not a good image for children, but I think there’s also that side to football, which is a bit more physical, more aggressive.

“The most logical thing would have been to send him off during the match, and that’s it. In the end, I think it’s all football, and it has to be that way.”

It was incorrectly reported on Fifa’s commentator information system that Paredes had been sent off by referee Slavko Vincic for pushing Garcia by the throat.

Paredes’ red card was deleted on the system shortly afterwards and Fifa has confirmed to BBC Sport that no disciplinary action was taken at the time.

Argentina’s Enzo Fernandez was dismissed during the final, receiving a second yellow card in second-half added time.

Fernandez was sent off late in normal time for two yellow cards, and Spain won 1-0 after extra time on Sunday in New Jersey.

His first booking was for showing dissent towards Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic, and Fernandez was later dismissed for catching Pau Cubarsi with a challenge that sent the defender cartwheeling in the air.

But, in a statement on social media, the Chelsea midfielder did not mention the red card and said: “As time goes by, you realise there is something much bigger than just a result.

“For years, this group has represented the team in the best possible way. It teaches that competing isn’t just about winning; it’s about giving your all for the jersey and never giving up.

“It has been a privilege to be part of a group that always stepped up, competed at the highest level, and defended these colours with pride, humility, and commitment.”

Members of the Argentina team and backroom staff were involved in altercations with Spain players who had begun to celebrate their World Cup success.

Fifa’s disciplinary committee has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to assess what happened and any player or coach involved could face suspension, while the Argentine Football Association may also be fined.

Nahuel Molina, Leandro Paredes, Thiago Almada and assistant coach Roberto Ayala all appeared to be involved, with Paredes pushing Spain’s Eric Garcia by the throat.

Spain’s Gavi tried to intervene, but was forced to the ground by Almada, before Paredes pushed Gavi to the turf by putting his hand in the Spaniard’s face.

Ayala then looked to be holding Garcia around the throat, before appearing to strike Spain midfielder Dani Olmo.

‘Let’s forget everything else’

While the match ended with ugly scenes broadcast around the world, questions remain over what happened behind closed doors prior to kick-off.

There has been widespread speculation on social media about what was said in the Argentina dressing room before the game, including whether Lionel Messi informed his team-mates that the final would be his last match for the national side.

It comes after Argentine television company RLC Noticias posted footage appearing to show Messi urging his team-mates to stay calm on their walk to the tunnel – and “forget about everything else”.

In the footage, which has not been verified by the BBC, Messi is seen saying: “Let’s go, boys, [let’s keep] calm people, calm. The main thing is for us to remain calm, boys, that we remain calm.

“Let’s just concentrate on playing, nothing else – calm, OK? Forget everything else.

“Let’s just play, let’s just concentrate on playing. Let’s go.”

‘We must be gracious in defeat’

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Enzo Fernandez was on a yellow card when he challenged Pau Cubarsi

The actions of the Argentina players on the pitch were heavily criticised by former England internationals.

Ex-England captain Alan Shearer said: “Paredes threw two or three haymakers into someone’s face. He went for them. There is no place or space for that.

“We know how much it means to them and we know how much it hurts to lose, but there is a way to lose. Too many times we have seen that from Argentina. The reaction after the final whistle is terrible.”

Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart added: “The game’s done, they can have absolutely no complaints about what happened. Disgusting behaviour.”

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni attempted to calm the situation down in his post-match interview.

He said: “We are gracious in victory, and we must be gracious in defeat. Today, we are showing that we know how to lose.

“We lost the match, and we accept it, but that doesn’t mean we stop living or forget everything we did to get here.”

Argentina, the World Cup winners in 1978, 1986 and 2022, won their first seven matches in North America, beating Algeria, Austria, Jordan, Cape Verde, Egypt, Switzerland and England before losing to Spain.

Against Egypt, Argentina were 2-0 down before scoring three late goals to win and in the semi-final with England, the Three Lions led 1-0 until the 85th minute before goals from Fernandez and a Lautaro Martinez header gave them a 2-1 win.

Several media outlets in Argentina have suggested the final could be Scaloni’s last in charge and called it the end of an era, with talisman Lionel Messi, in tears at the end, unlikely to play at another World Cup.

“The pain is immense, and this wound will take time to heal. But I also hold onto all the good things,” Messi wrote on social media.

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Argentina fans lined the streets to welcome the team home

However, the team were still greeted by thousands of Argentina fans with an open-top bus parade through the streets of Buenos Aires.

Scaloni and 16 of his 26 players returned to the country and were welcomed by a red carpet and military band at Ezeiza International Airport.

Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, who made 11 saves during the final, was among the players in Argentina, but Messi was one of those who did not make the trip, instead returning to Miami where he plays club football for Inter Miami.

The 33-year-old has won 67 caps for his country and played every minute of Argentina’s eight World Cup games, keeping two clean sheets and conceding eight goals.

He was a World Cup winner in 2022, also claiming the golden glove award as the tournament’s outstanding goalkeeper.

“I dreamt we’d win it again, I dreamt of bringing it back to Argentina and making history once more,” Martinez wrote in a post on Instagram.

“The truth is, the pain is hard to explain. There are many things to reflect on and how to move forward, and if it’s time to step aside.

“I’m so sorry, I truly tried my best to help my country and my team-mates.”

Martinez won the Yashin Trophy, awarded to the world’s best goalkeeper at the Ballon d’Or awards, in 2023 and 2024.

He has played for Aston Villa since 2020 and has a contract until 2029, but has been linked to a move to Italian side Juventus this summer.

Ferran Torres’ extra-time strike saw Spain crowned world champions for a second time, ending Argentina’s defence of the title they won in 2022.

Messi has now lost two World Cup finals after Argentina were defeated 1-0 by Germany in 2014.

At 39 years old, Messi is unlikely to feature at the 2030 tournament, though he is yet to clarify his international future.

“The pain is immense, and this wound will take time to heal. But I also hold onto all the good things,” Messi wrote on social media.

“The matches we turned around by giving it our all – moments that will remain in our memories forever – and the support of an entire country which, combined with this group’s hard work and effort, brought us back among the world’s elite once again.

“It is hard to fully appreciate our achievement right now, but this group reached two consecutive World Cup finals.

“Thank you from the bottom of my heart for every greeting and message. Once again, we managed to unite as a country and stand together, sharing the immense pride of being Argentine.

“I also want to congratulate Spain on winning the championship.”

Messi contributed eight goals and four assists as Argentina reached the final for the third time in the past four World Cups.

He played a key role in his side coming from behind to beat Egypt and England in the knockout stages, but could not overcome a Spain side that conceded one goal in the whole tournament.

Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez, who was shown a second yellow card in second half injury time for a late challenge on Pau Cubarsi, wrote on social media that he and his team-mates had “defended these colors with pride, humility, and commitment”.

Fifa’s disciplinary committee has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate altercations between both sets of players at the full-time whistle.

“For years, this group has represented us in the best possible way. It teaches that competing isn’t just about winning; it’s about giving your all for the jersey and never giving up,” Fernandez added.

Fifa had already begun the process of potential disciplinary action against Argentina when their players held a banner in support of their country’s claims to the Falkland Islands following the 2-1 semi-final win against England.

After the 1-0 defeat on Sunday, members of the Argentina team and backroom staff were involved in altercations with Spain players as they began to celebrate their World Cup success.

Any player or coach involved in the fracas at the MetLife Stadium could face suspensions, while the Argentine Football Association (AFA) may also be fined.

It was initially reported by Fifa that Argentina’s Leandro Paredes had been sent off by referee Slavko Vincic after he pushed Spain’s Eric Garcia by the throat.

Paredes’ red card was removed from the record shortly afterwards and there is now no evidence of any disciplinary action being taken at the time.

Argentina had already had one player dismissed, with Enzo Fernandez receiving a second yellow card in second-half stoppage time.

Fifa’s disciplinary committee will now await the official match reports before taking any action.

What happened after the World Cup final?

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Leandro Paredes appeared to strike Spain defender Eric Garcia in the throat in the post-match fracas

As the final whistle blew in New Jersey, a few Argentina players – including Lionel Messi – slumped to the turf.

Others stood there motionless as Spain’s players raced across the pitch in jubilation.

Rodri, who had been substituted in extra-time, ran over from the dugout to join his team-mates.

As the Manchester City midfielder went past Nahuel Molina, the Argentina defender appeared to punch Rodri on the arm or stomach.

This was the fuse which ignited the trouble.

Rodri confronted Molina, but it was the Argentina player who thrust forward in an aggressive manner.

Garcia ran over to back up his team-mate at which point Paredes got involved too, jabbing Garcia in the throat.

Unused substitute Gavi tried to intervene, only to be forced to the ground by Thiago Almada.

Paredes then pushed Gavi to the floor by putting his hand in the Spaniard’s face.

Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala then looked to be holding Garcia around the throat. He then appeared to strike Spain midfielder Dani Olmo.

“Paredes threw two or three haymakers into someone’s face. He went for them,” Alan Shearer said on BBC One’s coverage. “There is no place or space for that.

“We know how much it means to them and we know how much it hurts to lose, but there is a way to lose. Too many times we have seen that from Argentina. The reaction after the final whistle is terrible.”

Joe Hart added: “The game’s done, they can have absolutely no complaints about what happened today. Disgusting behaviour.”

But Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni, who had attempted to calm down the situation, appeared to play down the incidents in his post-match interview.

“We are gracious in victory, and we must be gracious in defeat,” he said. “Today, we are showing that we know how to lose.

“We lost the match, and we accept it, but that doesn’t mean we stop living or forget everything we did to get here.”

What action could Argentina face?

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Thiago Almada and Leandro Paredes throw Gavi to the ground as Roberto Ayala appears to hold Eric Garcia around the throat

Fifa’s disciplinary committee has a number of options open to it.

It could look to issue three-match bans for violent conduct, but it is more likely to use its disciplinary code to give stronger charges.

Article 13 covers offensive behaviour and the principles of fair play.

The actions of the players and staff could be judged as “violating the basic rules of decent conduct” and “behaving in a way that brings the sport of football and/or Fifa into disrepute”.

The Fifa disciplinary committee takes into account “both aggravating and mitigating circumstances”, and it has the power to enforce the ban globally.

Fifa used this clause to charge then-Spanish football federation president Luis Rubiales after kissing Jenni Hermoso on the lips after Spain’s Women’s World Cup final win against England.

Rubiales was banned from all football-related activities for three years in 2023 and lost an appeal to get it overturned.

Uruguay striker Luis Suarez was suspended from all football-related activity for four months for biting Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini at the 2014 World Cup.

It meant the Liverpool player missed the first nine games of the Premier League season.

It is unlikely that Paredes, Molina and Ayala will face bans as long as this.

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Gavi was pushed in the face by Leandro Paredes as he was forced to the ground

The AFA, however, has faced issues with the behaviour of its players in recent years.

Argentina faced charges related to “offensive behaviour and violations of the principles of fair play” and “misconduct of players and officials” following the 2022 World Cup final.

The South Americans beat France on penalties but were criticised for the way they celebrated.

Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez made a lewd gesture with his Goalkeeper of the Tournament trophy, before being filmed in the dressing room mocking France star Kylian Mbappe.

Argentina were fined £18,300 and no action was taken against any player involved.

But Martinez was banned for two games in 2024 for ‘offensive behaviour’ in World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Colombia.

Martinez repeated his infamous celebration using a replica Copa America trophy following a 3-0 win over Chile. Four days later, he hit a camera with his gloves as a cameraman approached him on the pitch after a 2-1 defeat by Colombia.

At this World Cup, the AFA is already facing a probable fine for the banner held up after the England game.

Their players celebrated while holding a cloth which read “Las Malvinas son Argentinas”, which translates as “The Falklands are Argentine”.

In 2014, the AFA was fined £20,000 after its players held up a banner with the same message before a friendly against Slovenia.

It is possible that Fifa could issue bans to the players who were holding it: Tottenham’s Cristian Romero, former Spurs player Giovani Lo Celso and Manchester United’s Lisandro Martínez.

After Spain’s 2-1 Euro 2024 final win over England, their captain Alvaro Morata and team-mate Rodri were banned for one game by Uefa after they chanted “Gibraltar is Spanish” during their victory celebrations.

So when could Fifa make a decision on any potential charges?

After the 2022 World Cup final on 18 December, Fifa officially charged Argentina on 13 January but it took another month for a decision to be reached.

There will not be a resolution any time soon.

After being crowned European champions two years ago in Berlin, La Roja are now world champions having beaten Argentina 1-0 in the World Cup final in New Jersey on Sunday.

They achieved the same feat back in 2010, two years after winning Euro 2008.

Spain’s latest success continues their remarkable dominance in the men’s and women’s game.

They are the first nation to be men’s and women’s World Cup winners at the same time – La Roja overcoming England in the Women’s World Cup final in Sydney in 2023.

That’s not all. The men won the Nations League in 2023 and gold at the 2024 Olympics, while the women won the Nations League in both 2024 and 2025.

In fact, in the last five years, Spain have now won an astonishing 16 world and European titles from under-17 to senior level.

“It is a dominance,” Spanish football expert Guillem Balague told BBC Sport.

“It’s like the perfect storm. Culturally, we do things a certain way. Everybody believes in it. The important thing is that we don’t stop.

“It’s another Everest because the men won the World Cup in 2010 two years after winning the Euros. Now we’ve done it again.”

Spain’s winning machine

Women’s football (11 titles 2022-2026)

Senior: 1 x World Cup (2023); 2 x Nations Leagues (2024, 2025).

Under-20: 1 x World Cup (2022).

Under-19: 5 x Under-19 European champions (2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026).

Under-17: 1 x World Cup (2022); 1 x European champions (2024).

Men’s football (5 titles 2022-2026)

Senior: 1 x World Cup (2026); 1 x European champions (2024); 1 x Nations League (2023).

Under-23: 1 x Olympic gold medal winners (2024).

Under-19: 1 x European champions (2026).

‘It was risky to appoint De La Fuente’

When Spain appointed Luis de la Fuente as head coach in December 2022, few expected him to deliver the Nations League (2023), European Championship (2024) and World Cup (2026) in so short a time frame.

Spain had just been knocked out of the World Cup by Morocco in the last 16 in Qatar and the federation needed a replacement after Luis Enrique left his role.

“They went with this guy [De La Fuente] who understood the style and the system,” added Balague.

“It was a very risky decision – I don’t think anyone thought he would be so successful.”

It appeared risky because De La Fuente took charge of Spain, who have won three of the past five men’s European Championships – (2008, 2012, 2024) – without having managed a big club.

After retiring as a player in 1994, De La Fuente spent 15 years in different roles with a succession of different clubs, including managing in the lower Spanish leagues, youth roles and assistant coach positions – before he took charge of Spain’s youth teams.

“De la Fuente knew most of these players from the academies and they are growing as a team,” former Spain midfielder Juan Mata told BBC Sport.

“This is not only a team for the present, but also a team for the future.”

Since being appointed senior boss after stints in charge of the under-19s, under-21s and at Olympic level, De La Fuente has implemented a culture of respect for their rivals, for the process and preaching patience and calmness.

“Most of you are younger than me and you need to respect experience,” the 65-year-old told journalists at his pre-match news conference in New York on Friday.

“Once we finished the game, there were footballers who said ‘coach, now what else is there to win as we have won everything in all the categories’.

“We came to the conclusion that what remains is the next match in September because this team are relentless.”

The success of the national teams and Spanish coaches has spilled over to club football.

Despite Pep Guardiola’s decision to leave Manchester City after 10 trophy-packed years, at least a quarter of the managers who start the 2026-27 Premier League season are Spanish.

Spain are now unbeaten in their last 38 matches in all competitions, the longest ever run by any European or South American team in history.

‘We are winning everything’

Meanwhile, the women’s game in Spain has thrived in the last decade and is also starting to reel in big successes in the high-pressure games.

The country’s victory over England three years ago in the Women’s World Cup final came in just their third appearance at the tournament, having made their debut in 2015.

Spain’s women then followed that up by winning back-to-back Nations Leagues in 2024 and 2025.

“The changes in women’s football in Spain have been especially significant,” former player Maria Garrido, who is now a journalist, told BBC Sport in 2024.

“Ten years ago, when I played for FC Barcelona, there was no La Masia [the famed academy at Barcelona] for girls. We covered our own transport costs, our parents brought us to training, and we didn’t earn any money.

“But in the last five years, the situation has improved dramatically. There has been a substantial push to promote women’s football, including the creation of more youth categories, better facilities and conditions, and the establishment of a dedicated football academy for girls.

“This transformation has not only revolutionised the sport but also elevated the respect for women’s football in Spain.”

These successes for both the men’s and women’s teams followed lifting numerous titles at youth level over the last decade.

‘Winning breeds winning’

The future looks bright, with many believing Spain’s dominance will continue.

In Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsi, the men have two outstanding young talents who have picked up their first World Cup winners’ medal at the age of 19.

Vicky Lopez, who plays for the national women’s team, is a three-time Champions League winner with Barcelona at the same age.

Forward Salma Paralluelo has also represented her country more than 50 times before the age of 23.

Yamal became the third-youngest player to play in a World Cup final, after Brazil’s Pele in 1958 (17 years, 249 days) and Italy’s Giuseppe Bergomi in 1982 (18 years and 201 days).

With Cubarsi also starting on Sunday at the age of 19 years and 178 days, Spain were the first side to feature two teenagers in a single World Cup final.

“Spain have got a way of playing that no one in the world has proven they can get anywhere near,” former England goalkeeper Joe Hart told BBC Sport after the win over Argentina.

“No one laid a glove on them at this World Cup, [they faced] just 10 shots on target against them in the whole tournament.”

Meanwhile, France 1998 World Cup winner Thierry Henry told Fox Sports that Spain have the potential to dominate for years to come.

“I want to give credit to the system and what they put in place,” he said.

“Because Spain never used to win like that. And now they win at every level.”

Messi, at 39, gazed long and hard at Argentina’s fans packed around the New York New Jersey Stadium as they sang his name after what may be the last time he graces the game’s biggest stage.

And, with the world watching, it was Lamine Yamal who offered the great Argentina icon consolation before they fell into each other’s arms.

Barcelona’s number 10 embracing their most legendary number 10.

A different image to the amazing photo of a 20-old Messi bathing a six-month-old Lamine Yamal in September 2007 as part of a charity calendar raffle that went viral once more in the build-up to this game.

The baby boy is now a man, and Messi may be at the end of his World Cup journey.

Lamine Yamal – two decades younger and still in the infancy of his career – has effectively completed international football by lifting the World Cup two years after he came to wider prominence by winning the Euros when Spain beat England.

He, like Messi a product of Barcelona, came into the tournament troubled by a hamstring injury, but ended it as the youngest player – at 19 years and six days – to win both the World Cup and Euros.

And one of the key storylines contained within this disappointing World Cup final was how Lamine Yamal’s influence was assisted by the purist strategies of his Spain team-mates – while Messi was betrayed by Argentina’s provocative approach.

It yielded nothing, which was what it deserved.

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Lamine Yamal embraced Lionel Messi at the end of the World Cup final

Spain and Lamine Yamal have grown through the tournament to leave him with the world at his feet and football’s two greatest prizes in his pocket.

As well as having glorious natural gifts, he is also Spain’s lucky charm. They completed their domination of the international stage with Ferran Torres’ decisive 106th-minute strike in extra time.

Lamine Yamal has yet to lose for his country in the 28 competitive matches he has played. He has started 13 games at major tournaments and won all of them – the longest 100% win rate of any European player across major tournaments when starting.

He also became – along with 19-year-old Spain team-mate Pau Cubarsi – just the fourth and fifth teenagers to start a World Cup final and win, after Pele for Brazil in 1958, Italy defender Giuseppe Bergomi in 1982 and Kylian Mbappe with France in 2018.

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente spoke afterwards of his “sincere gratitude” to Lamine Yamal.

“He has played great football that will help him to mature and be even a greater footballer than he already is,” he said.

“He really sacrificed for the collective good. This is very important in my squad. In my opinion he played a great World Cup.”

And this is not simply a special talent, it is a special talent with a special temperament.

He shrugged off Argentina’s obvious attempts to intimidate him as he regularly came into close contact with Nicolas Tagliafico in particular.

Former England goalkeeper and BBC Sport pundit Joe Hart summed it up well.

“Not only did Lamine Yamal not react,” he said. “He stood up to it. He was not rattled and he did not back down. He had the entire team trying to smash him.

“He just stayed real cool. It was real standout performance from him.

“Lamine Yamal is 19 years old. What a beautiful day for him. He’s 19 and has completed football.”

With virtually his whole career in front of him, and taking in the experience and influence of Spain team-mates such as his captain and player of the tournament Rodri, there is every chance Lamine Yamal will add more successes like this before he is done.

Argentina spoilers wreck Messi’s World Cup hopes

The joy of Lamine Yamal was the sharpest of contrasts to Messi, who looked heartbroken as he stared into those massed ranks of Argentina supporters, the realisation perhaps dawning that this would be the final time he would take such adoration at the World Cup.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni, like Messi trying to win a second successive World Cup, became highly emotional when asked whether this was the legendary attacker’s final game in the tournament – while also reflecting on his own future with his contract due to expire in December.

Scaloni said he had not spoken to Messi, before bursting into tears himself then leaving the news conference.

Messi’s cause was not helped here by Argentina’s confrontational approach from virtually the first whistle, which left their inspiration and leader effectively a passenger for most of the game.

Spain’s victory was a victory for football because Argentina appeared to be focused on anything but that from early on, when Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic exercised the sort of leniency that has infuriated opponents throughout the World Cup.

Alexis Mac Allister’s poor challenge on Dani Olmo received nothing more than a brief admonishment, prompting Spain fans to ironically chant the name of Fifa president Gianni Infantino. It was another nod to the conspiracy theorists who claim Argentina’s road to the final has been smoothed out by officialdom.

It was 40 minutes before Argentina defender Lisandro Martinez received the game’s first yellow card for a foul on Mikel Oyarzabal – greeted with heavy sarcasm by many inside this vast bowl of a stadium.

To see Argentina’s obvious talent, which they displayed by overpowering England in the semi-final, reduced to such spoiling tactics was a dismal sight, hardly designed to aid Messi’s genius and influence.

Messi even got in the act by suggesting the referee should send off Spain’s Marc Cucurella for talking with his hand over his mouth – punishable by a red card if employed in a confrontational manner at this World Cup.

It came after the low point of Argentina’s performance, Enzo Fernandez’s senseless charge at Cubarsi just before the game went into extra time. The Chelsea midfielder was not even looking at the ball when he flattened his opponent. A second yellow card was fully deserved.

Argentina were the first team in the tournament’s history not to have a shot in 90 minutes of a World Cup final. When it did come, in the 117th minute and with desperation mounting, Messi fired off target.

Spain had 12 shots on target, Argentina had none in the entire game.

In a shocking first half, Argentina committed more fouls than passes in the final third of the pitch. Nine as opposed to eight. It summed up their approach.

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: King Felipe VI of Spain hugs Lamine Yamal after the World Cup win

Argentina’s players joined Messi in shedding tears after the final whistle, though even that ended in an undignified scrum between players and officials from either side.

Leandro Paredes – as he was too often after coming on as substitute for the second half – was the aggressor, grabbing Eric Garcia by the throat. He was also involved as Spain’s Gavi was thrown to the ground.

This outstanding World Cup should not be remember for such an unsavoury finale.

Spain may not have been at their best in the final, but they have developed throughout the World Cup, from the shock of being held to a draw in their opening game by Cape Verde to ultimate glory.

The World Cup got the winners it deserved, and in Lamine Yamal it has a star of future tournaments.

Messi’s unforgettable World Cup era may be over – but the Lamine Yamal years could go on for a long time to come.

The European title holders had created the best opportunities against the defending world champions, who mainly resorted to spoiling tactics and had Enzo Fernandez sent off just before the game went into extra time.

Torres was the hero for Spain when he collected substitute Nico Williams’ header to beat Argentina keeper Emiliano Martinez with a powerful shot from close range after 106 minutes.

The game failed to live up to expectations as it descended into a war of attrition – while away from the action, this was the World Cup where razzmatazz and superstars came to the showpiece.

President Donald Trump flew in to New Jersey in one of a fleet of helicopters before kick-off, while Shakira, Madonna and Justin Bieber performed in the first World Cup half-time show, stretching the interval out to 27 minutes.

In a dour affair littered with interruptions, followed by that lengthy interval, the game never had any fluency or flow, although Lamine Yamal and Mikel Oyarzabal forced first-half saves out of Argentina keeper Martinez.

Spain constantly complained about referee Slavko Vincic’s leniency, especially when Alexis Mac Allister was late on Dani Olmo, with the first yellow card coming after 40 minutes when Lisandro Martinez brought down Oyarzabal, although the Manchester United defender went off injured shortly afterwards.

The game boiled over in stoppage time when Fernandez, who had already been cautioned, received a second yellow card for a reckless challenge on Spain defender Pau Cubarsi.

Argentina keeper Martinez had been their hero, and he prevented Spain scoring a winner in the final seconds of normal time when he made a superb save from Lamine Yamal’s free-kick.

He was in action again with another crucial stop from Williams’ header. Williams then had a goal ruled out for substitute Mikel Merino’s foul on Nicolas Otamendi.

Argentina came back to beat Egypt and England in the knockout stage – but could not repeat the feat here as Spain won the men’s World Cup for the second time.

And it means they become the first nation ever to be men’s and women’s world champions at the same time.

Luis de la Fuente’s side were due to train at the Melanie Lane training ground in New Jersey but after the session was initially suspended, it was later called off.

About five miles away in Morristown, opponents Argentina were later able to train after a 45-minute delay.

Spain and defending champions Argentina will meet in Sunday’s final (20:00 BST) at the New York New Jersey Stadium.

On Saturday, New York City Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani said the city was under a flood advisory and advised residents not to “risk your safety in these dangerous conditions”.

“The Spanish national team’s training session on the pitches at the Melanie Lane Training Ground in New Jersey has been suspended in accordance with the US storm safety protocol,” the Spanish federation (RFEF) said in a statement.

“The players are currently taking part in a warm-up session indoors.”

US protocol states that any outdoor sporting event must be suspended if lightning or electrical activity is detected within an eight-mile radius of the venue.

Events can only resume if there are no further lightning strikes for at least 30 minutes.

Fifa, football’s world governing body and organisers of the World Cup, said there would be no alternative time slots for European champions Spain to train on Saturday.

Earlier this week, officials in New York and New Jersey issued an air quality health alert because of haze blanketing the city, caused by wildfires in Canada.

Spain booked their place in the final by beating France 2-0 on Tuesday, while Argentina staged a late comeback to beat England 2-1 on Wednesday.

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Argentina are looking to become only the third nation to retain the World Cup

Argentina face potential disciplinary action from Fifa over the incident which could breach rules on political statements.

Asked whether players were in the wrong, Andrew Giuliani, head of the White House Fifa task force, said on Friday that the team had the opportunity and ability to “make those statements” in the US.

The comments could further fuel the row over the incident, which has seen Downing Street back calls for Fifa to investigate.

The Falklands, a British overseas territory in the south-west Atlantic Ocean, remains the subject of a sovereignty dispute between the UK and Argentina.

Players for Argentina held a banner after Wednesday’s semi-final match reading “Las Malvinas son Argentinas”, which translates as “The Falklands are Argentine”.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, Giuliani referenced free speech protections in the US Constitution, saying: “We believe in our First Amendment rights here in the United States of America.”

Downing Street backed calls for Fifa to investigate the incident, with the prime minister’s official spokesperson saying: “The World Cup might not be ours, but the Falkland Islands definitely are. Our commitment to the Falklands will never waver.”

No 10 added that any potential action against Argentina players who unveiled the banner was “a matter for Fifa”, but echoed the view of Business Secretary Peter Kyle that world football’s governing body should investigate.

For its part, the government of the Falkland Islands said it was “disappointed but not surprised” about the banner and it hopes Fifa will “sanction all behaviour of this nature in line with its own rules”.

“We do not wish to see politics being brought into sport” a statement added.

“Nor do we wish the Islands and their people to be used as a political football in every conversation about England and Argentina”.

In 2013, the people of the Falkland Islands voted overwhelmingly in favour of remaining a UK overseas territory.

Of 1,517 votes cast in the two-day referendum – on a turnout of more than 90% – 1,513 were in favour, while just three votes were against.

Argentina vice-president Victoria Villarruel posted on X after Wednesday’s victory that “it wasn’t just another match” alongside a video of what appeared to be Argentine soldiers.

“The Falklands are Argentine,” Villarruel posted. “They banned bringing them to the stadium and forgot that we carry them in our blood and our hearts.”

Argentina players also sang chants which referenced the Falklands and Argentina greats Maradona and Lionel Messi following their dramatic 3-2 win over Egypt in the last 16.

A brief but bitter war arose between Britain and Argentina over the territory in 1982.

A British military task force ejected Argentine forces, who had landed on the Falklands to stake a territorial claim.

The 74-day conflict led to the deaths of 255 British military personnel, three islanders and 649 Argentine soldiers.

In 2007 Lamine Yamal’s parents won a charity photoshoot at Barcelona in which 20-year-old Messi held their five-month-old baby.

Speaking to Messi during a news conference in New York, NFL legend Tom Brady called the photos “very prophetic”.

Messi said: “That photo is incredible. The fact that we’re both playing in the World Cup now is crazy.”

Image source: Joan Monfort

Image caption: The picture of Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal from 2007

Lamine Yamal made his Barcelona debut at 15 and has inherited the number 10 shirt from Messi.

He helped Spain win Euro 2024 and, now aged 19, could become the youngest player to win the European Championships and the World Cup.

“He’s one of the best in the world right now,” said 39-year-old Messi.

“I wish him luck because his success will be Barcelona’s success.

“We’ll try to keep him from playing at his best. Spain has a great team, not just him.

“He’s a tremendous player – a global star. He’s 19 years old and has his whole career ahead of him. I wish him the best, but we’ll give it our all to ensure he doesn’t become champion this time.”

Messi attended a fans’ event on Friday with Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez and Spain captain Rodri.

After the news conference, Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni hugged Spain counterpart Luis de la Fuente, who was one of the instructors when Scaloni gained his Uefa Pro coaching licence in Spain.

Former England defender Rio Ferdinand and actor Kevin Hart hosted the event, while tennis legend Novak Djokovic and NBA star Kevin Durant joined Brady in asking questions.

Brady continued his ongoing feud with Logan Paul as they argued on stage before the record seven-time Super Bowl winner slapped the YouTuber turned WWE star, with New York Knicks player Karl-Anthony Towns splitting them up.

The defending world champions produced a dramatic late comeback in Atlanta, scoring twice to defeat Thomas Tuchel’s side 2-1 and book a showdown with Spain in Sunday’s final.

After the final whistle, Argentina players held up a banner reading “Las Malvinas son Argentinas”, which translates as “The Falklands are Argentine”.

The Falklands, a British overseas territory in the south-west Atlantic Ocean, remain the subject of a sovereignty dispute between the UK and Argentina.

In a statement, a Fifa spokesperson said: “As is standard procedure, Fifa’s independent disciplinary committee is currently assessing the match reports and considering the relevant circumstances before deciding on potential further steps based on the Fifa disciplinary code.”

Argentina’s football association were fined £20,000 by Fifa in 2014 for holding a banner with the same message before a friendly against Slovenia.

At the time, world football’s governing body said the gesture had breached rules on political action and team misconduct.

Downing Street has supported calls for Fifa to investigate, with the prime minister’s official spokesperson saying: “The World Cup might not be ours, but the Falkland Islands definitely are. Our commitment to the Falklands will never waver.”

Argentina’s President Javier Milei called the players’ action “understandable” and “valid”, according to media reports.

But he also made clear, in comments made to Radio El Observador, that “the things that happen on the pitch are not part of diplomacy”.

“Indeed, the Malvinas are Argentine, we are going to recover them, and we’re going to do it in the diplomatic field, by acting intelligently,” he said.

Argentina, ruled at the time by a military junta led by General Leopoldo Galtieri, invaded the islands, situated 300 miles off Argentina’s east coast, in 1982.

The conflict, which lasted for 74 days between April to June 1982, led to the deaths of 649 Argentine and 255 British servicemen. Three people from the islands also died.

In 2013, the people of the Falkland Islands voted overwhelmingly in favour of remaining a UK overseas territory.

Of 1,517 votes cast in the two-day referendum – on a turnout of more than 90% – 1,513 were in favour, while just three votes were against.

What action could Argentina face?

Fifa usually take disciplinary action for general breaches of regulations by players or a country’s supporters in the weeks after a tournament, although this could be taken more seriously because it occurred in a World Cup match between the two countries.

There is no prospect of Argentina losing their place in the final.

Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey has called for the Argentina players who were holding the banner to be suspended for Sunday’s final against Spain.

Davey referenced Uefa’s ban of Spain players Alvaro Morata and Rodri for one game after chanting “Gibraltar is Spanish” during their side’s Euro 2024 celebrations.

Gibraltar is an enclave at Spain’s southern tip that has been under British rule since the 18th century and Spain have long called for its return.

There is precedent for Fifa banning a player who has held up a banner with a similar political message.

After the 2012 Olympic Games bronze medal match, South Korea midfielder Park Jong-woo held a sign in Korean which read “Dokdo is our territory”.

More commonly known as Liancourt Rocks, Dokdo is a group of inlets administered by South Korea to which Japan holds a claim.

Park was charged by Fifa and a few months later handed a two-match suspension, meaning he sat out two World Cup qualifiers.

What has been the reaction to the banner?

The government of the Falkland Islands said it was “disappointed” about the banner and that they hope Fifa will “sanction all behaviour of this nature in line with its own rules”.

They also said “we do not wish to see politics being brought into sport”.

Milei was reported by Argentine broadcaster TN as saying that it was “perfectly valid and right that the players should want to express themselves and do so”.

However, he went on to say that this should not lead to “bad interpretations,” adding that “It’s a game of football, that’s how the team manager and the veterans [in Argentina of the 1982 Falklands War] understood it”.

Peter Kyle, the business and trade secretary, said it is “essential” that politics is kept out of the World Cup and called for Fifa to investigate.

“I’m really proud of our team, what they achieved, the professionalism they showed, but also the dignity that they showed,” said Kyle.

“And that was in real contrast to what we saw with the Argentine team last night. When it comes to the consequences for their actions, well, that’s for Fifa to do now. And I really do hope that Fifa do a proper investigation into it”.

Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the Conservative Party, echoed Kyle’s sentiments and said that Fifa “absolutely should investigate”.

Given Lionel Messi is now 39 and Lamine Yamal just 19, it is testament to the former’s relentless perseverance and the latter’s precocious talent that a match featuring both can take place at all, never mind in the sport’s greatest fixture.

But this is far from the first time the two have crossed paths.

That happened in 2007, when a 20-year-old Messi had recently become a regular starter for Barcelona, and Lamine Yamal was only five months old.

The meeting is documented in a series of photographs taken by Joan Monfort.

They resurfaced two years ago, when Lamine Yamal helped Spain win Euro 2024, as his father posted one online with the caption “The beginning of two legends”.

In the photos, a smiling Messi is cradling and bathing a tiny baby boy who would inexplicably follow so closely in his footballing footsteps.

“It is a true miracle of destiny”, Monfort tells BBC Sport.

“It is serendipity – when you find something extra special, so much bigger than you ever thought.

“If you wrote this in a film it would not seem possible.”

‘Messi had no idea what to do with a baby’

The photoshoot took place in the away dressing room at Barcelona’s Camp Nou stadium.

Lamine Yamal’s family had won a competition to be there.

His parents, Morocco-born Mounir Nasraoui and Sheila Ebana from Equatorial Guinea, met after moving to Catalonia as children with their own families.

Lamine Yamal is their eldest child, and shortly after he was born, they entered a raffle run by Catalan newspaper Sport in conjunction with Barcelona shirt sponsor and international children’s charity Unicef.

Those selected at random would have professional photos taken of their baby with a Barcelona first-team player.

Lamine Yamal was among the winners, and on the day the family arrived, they were paired with Messi by chance.

Image source: Joan Monfort

Image caption: Lamine Yamal’s mother Sheila Ebana also took part in the photo shoot

“I had no idea it was Lamine in the photo until one my friends called me in 2024 and told me his father had posted it to Instagram,” Monfort explains.

“Messi is a really introverted guy, very timid and shy. He came into the dressing room and suddenly had to take these photos with a little baby – not even a kid, a proper baby and his face changed like he had no idea what to do!

“It is difficult for a young man, but Lamine was a very happy, smiley little baby. His mum Sheila helped us, she was a young girl and they were a very poor family, but they were very nice to work with.

“Messi was always a professional in these kinds of things and he adapted to the situation very quickly.”

Image source: Joan Monfort

Image caption: Messi still wore number 19 for Barcelona in 2007, only inheriting the number 10 shirt a year later when Ronaldinho left the club

‘I’ll never be able to repay my parents’

By his 19th birthday Messi had scored 11 career goals and won La Liga and the Uefa Champions League once each.

Having turned 19 on Monday, Lamine Yamal has already scored a whopping 56 goals and won La Liga three times and the Copa del Rey once, as well as Euro 2024.

Yamal is not actually the player’s surname, but the second of his two first names.

His full name is Lamine Yamal Naraoui Ebana, and he wears the former two on the back of his shirts for both Barcelona and Spain as an homage to two people who helped his family around the time of his birth.

It has been widely reported in Spanish media that Lamine Yamal’s father promised to name him after two friends who assisted the family financially, helping them to pay their bills at a time when money was tight.

Lamine is a common male first name in Arabic, which can be translated to English as honest or trustworthy, while Yamal is a variant of Jamal, meaning elegance or beauty.

He grew up in Rocafonda, a working-class neighbourhood in Mataro, 20 miles north of Barcelona.

The area was built in the 1960s to house migrants from other regions of Spain, and when they began to move to more well-off areas, migrants from other countries arrived in the 1990s.

Lamine Yamal has celebrated some of his goals by making a 3-0-4 gesture with his fingers, referring to Rocafonda’s postcode.

“What my mother has done, what my father has done, I couldn’t have done that for anyone who is not my child”, Yamal told El Pais in earlier in the tournament.

“If you don’t have money, it’s very hard to help your child play football. And my parents managed to make all that happen. It’s something I’ll never be able to repay them for.”

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: The famous photograph has been turned into a banner by Spain fans at Euro 2024 and the World Cup

‘My heart is breaking in two pieces’

For Monfort, a Catalan who supports Barcelona, an on-pitch meeting between the two is the perfect denouement to a story which began almost two decades ago.

“I think we are closing the cycle of their story,” Monfort, now 58, adds. “It is a happy end.

“I am a fan of Barcelona, and I think for Messi it’s perfect if he can finish his career winning the World Cup for the second time. I think he deserves it.

“And for Lamine he has a lot of time to win trophies like the World Cup. But Spain and Lamine are arriving in a good moment and if he wins it now, it would be worth more than his other titles.

“It is very difficult for me. My heart is breaking in two pieces.”

Image source:Getty Images

Image caption: Messi left Barcelona for Paris St-Germain in 2021, two years before the debut of a 15-year-old Yamal, who went on to inherit the number 10 shirt in 2025

Winner rings are a tradition in American sport, with the NFL’s Super Bowl victors presented with them.

Thirty rings will be made available to the world champions, and a further 1,996 rings will go on sale to fans. Each ring will include a mini World Cup trophy in its design and an engraving in the band.

President Trump, who is to present the trophy, has not attended any of the 102 World Cup games so far, missing all of the USA’s matches before they went out to Belgium in the last 16.

There is a weather warning in New York over air quality caused by wildfires in Canada, but there is no suggestion the final at MetLife Stadium will be affected.

Fifa president Gianni Infantino had already said Trump would attend the final and White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt has confirmed he will.

The relationship between Infantino and Trump has been at the heart of the biggest controversy at this summer’s World Cup, with the US president calling the Fifa chief to seek a review of United States striker Folarin Balogun’s red card.

The subsequent decision to suspend Balogun’s automatic ban was heavily criticised, with questions raised about the integrity of the tournament.

Balogun was allowed to feature in the knockout game against Belgium, but the USA suffered a 4-1 thrashing.

No other red or yellow cards have been suspended during this World Cup, despite France and England appealing to have their own respective incidents reviewed.

Trump has a history of going to big sporting events, attending the Super Bowl, the US Open tennis tournament, the NBA finals and the Ryder Cup and hosting the UFC at the White House during his two presidential terms.

It is not unusual for heads of states in host countries to attend World Cup finals.

The USA have co-hosted the tournament with Canada and Mexico, with the final two games – both live on the BBC – taking place in America.

England play France in Miami from 22:00 BST on Saturday in the third-place match, while Argentina v Spain is from 20:00 on Sunday.

Ninety minutes—or perhaps 120—separate Spain and Argentina from immortality. Every pass, every tackle, every tactical adjustment will carry the weight of history. On Sunday, the 2026 FIFA World Cup will not simply crown a champion; it will answer a question that has been building for a month: which team truly defined this tournament?

For Spain, the final is the culmination of a football revolution completed.

When Luis de la Fuente took charge, many believed Spain could return to the technical brilliance that made them world champions in 2010. Few imagined the transformation would happen so quickly. This Spanish side has evolved beyond the endless possession that once defined La Roja. It presses with aggression, attacks with purpose and defends with remarkable organisation. The passing remains beautiful, but it is now accompanied by verticality, athleticism and a ruthless edge.

Their victories over Portugal, Belgium and France were not just wins; they were statements. Spain have looked like the tournament’s most balanced side, equally capable of controlling possession or surviving difficult moments without losing their identity.

Argentina’s journey has been different.

Champions are rarely remembered for perfect performances. They are remembered for finding solutions when games become chaotic. Argentina have done exactly that.

Every knockout match has demanded resilience. Every challenge has required emotional control. Against England in the semi-final, they showed once again why tournament football often rewards mentality as much as talent. They absorbed pressure, remained patient and struck when opportunities appeared.

That ability to suffer has become Argentina’s greatest strength.

The tactical battle promises to be fascinating.

Spain will want the ball. That is non-negotiable. Their midfield is the engine of everything they do, circulating possession until defensive lines begin to crack. Argentina know that chasing shadows for 90 minutes is a dangerous game. Instead, they are likely to remain compact, forcing Spain into wider areas before launching quick, direct counter-attacks.

The final could ultimately be decided not by spectacular attacking play, but by who wins the midfield.

World Cup finals often become chess matches disguised as football matches. Space disappears. Time feels shorter. Mistakes become fatal. Coaches spend years preparing teams for these moments, yet the decisive moment often comes from an unexpected source—a substitute, a set piece, a defensive error or a moment of individual brilliance.

History offers little comfort.

Spain have reached only one previous World Cup final, winning it in Johannesburg in 2010. Argentina, by contrast, carry the experience and expectation of a nation that has lived through triumph and heartbreak on football’s biggest stage. Their history gives them confidence, but it also adds pressure.

Pressure, however, is unavoidable.

For Spain, victory would confirm the arrival of a new golden generation capable of dominating international football for years to come.

For Argentina, lifting the trophy again would reinforce their status as one of football’s enduring powers and prove that their culture of winning extends beyond one era or one iconic player.

These are the nights players dream about as children.

The stadium will be filled with noise, colour and expectation, but once the referee blows the whistle, all of it fades into a series of tiny decisions: whether to press or retreat, pass or shoot, gamble or wait.

That is what makes World Cup finals different.

They are rarely won by the team with the better highlights. They are won by the team that manages the moment.

On Sunday night, Spain will attempt to complete their footballing renaissance. Argentina will attempt to write another unforgettable chapter in their rich World Cup history.

Only one team will leave with the trophy.

The other will leave with football’s cruellest memory—knowing they stood one match away from immortality.

But in 2026, the final carries a unique distinction: for the first time in the modern FIFA Ranking era, the two highest-ranked teams in the world are facing each other in the World Cup final.

This is not just a final. It is a confirmation of football’s elite.

For years, the FIFA Rankings have measured consistency, performance and global strength, but the World Cup often tells a different story. The tournament has regularly produced surprises, with lower-ranked nations defeating favourites and rewriting history.

Previous finals have featured giants, but rarely have the No.1 and No.2 ranked nations arrived together on the biggest stage.

The battle of football’s best

This final represents a clash between two complete footballing machines.

Both teams have built their success on more than individual brilliance. They possess world-class talent, tactical identity and squads deep enough to survive the pressure of a seven-game tournament.

Their journey to the final has shown why they occupy the top positions in world football.

They have defeated elite opponents, handled difficult moments and demonstrated the mentality required to compete when every mistake can end a World Cup dream.

A victory for consistency

Reaching a World Cup final requires more than a golden generation. It requires structure.

The two finalists represent years of planning, investment and development. Their success reflects strong football systems, elite coaching and players who have been prepared for the highest level.

While the World Cup is famous for underdog stories, this final celebrates another side of the game — when excellence finally meets excellence.

A final for the history books

The beauty of football is that rankings mean nothing once the referee starts the match. The best team on paper still has to prove itself on the pitch.

That is why this final is so special.

It is a meeting of the world’s strongest teams, a battle between two nations that have reached the summit at the same time.

When the trophy is lifted, history will remember not only the winner, but the moment when football’s two best-ranked nations finally met in a World Cup final.

The kings of the rankings have reached the throne room. Now only one can rule.

Defending champions Argentina produced a dramatic late comeback in Atlanta to earn a 2-1 win against Thomas Tuchel’s side, setting up a final against Spain on Sunday.

It was a second World Cup semi-final defeat in eight years for England and Bayern Munich striker Kane following a 2-1 defeat by Croatia in 2018.

While Kane praised Argentina’s 39-year-old inspirational captain Lionel Messi, the 32-year-old former Tottenham striker is unsure if he will be representing England in four years’ time.

“It’s too early to talk about that. For me, it’s about taking it year by year and how I feel,” said Kane.

“The national team is my pride and joy, it’s what I love to do most.

“Four years is a long way away and I’m 33 in the summer, but as you see with Leo [Messi], he’s still performing at the highest level [at 39].

“I never want to put a limit on these things. For now, it’s about processing another tough loss.”

Kane has scored six goals at this World Cup and with a third-place match to come he could still win the Golden Boot – although both Messi, who had assists for both Argentina goals against England, and France’s Kylian Mbappe are on eight.

England went ahead in the 55th minute of Wednesday’s game when Anthony Gordon finished from Morgan Rogers’ cross.

But late goals from Enzo Fernandez and – in the second minute of injury time – Lautaro Martinez meant the Three Lions missed out on their first men’s World Cup final appearance since 1966.

“There’s not much to say – everyone is gutted,” added Kane.

“When you’re so close, 10 minutes away, and it slips out of your hands like that, obviously the lads are devastated.

“We did so well for 60 minutes. We scored and deserved to be ahead, then we struggled to keep the ball, struggled to put pressure on the ball, and it allowed them to create more momentum and chances in the final third.

“We’re going to have to find out how we can improve in those situations. It’s been probably the missing piece now for probably the past four or five tournaments.”

England must now prepare for Saturday’s third-place play-off against France (22:00 BST), which will be live on the BBC.

Familiar story for devastated England

England have now lost in the semi-finals in two of the past three men’s World Cups, and were beaten in the European Championship finals in 2021 and 2024.

Central defender Dan Burn, who was roared on to the field as a second-half substitute when England were still ahead, summed up the feelings of the beaten players.

“Gutted,” said the Newcastle defender. “Absolutely gutted.

“We nailed the gameplan pretty well. To go 1-0 up… then we got too passive, conceded too many crosses and too many chances.

“When you’re playing a team of that quality, it is going to cost you. This will haunt me for a long time, I think.”

England had produced resolute displays in the previous two rounds – beating Mexico 3-2 in the last 16 despite playing most of the second half with 10 men, then hanging on to defeat Norway 2-1 in the quarter-finals.

Asked why Tuchel’s side had been unable to continue that run against the holders, Burn said: “I don’t know.

“It is human nature [to be nervous] when you’re that close to doing something you haven’t done since ’66 and be in a final.

“Argentina have done that and got that confidence. The last few games we have been able to defend the box so well. We thought we could do that again, but we weren’t as tight in the box as we would have liked.”

Burn added: “I am still very proud of what we have done at this World Cup. I don’t think anyone really gave us a chance. We have done a lot of good, and honestly I thought we were going to do it.”

Like Kane, midfielder Jude Bellingham has also scored six goals for England at this tournament.

“The lads did everything they could over the course of the tournament – I can’t fault the effort and the fight,” said Real Madrid midfielder Bellingham.

“That’s the life of a footballer at this level. The more beautiful the journey, the more heartbreaking the end is. I’m really proud of all my team-mates – they put in a magnificent shift over the last few weeks.

“I wanted to be part of an England squad that finally did it and finally got it over the line. To be here telling the fans the same things they have heard for years and years, it’s really gutting.”

‘We invited too much pressure’

Despite the defeat, head coach Tuchel retains the backing of the Football Association and is expected to lead the team into Euro 2028.

But Tuchel said he was surprised his side were unable to see the game out, having got themselves ahead.

“We went 1-0 up, but it totally turned the momentum in their favour,” Tuchel told BBC Radio 5 Live. “They took all the risks after. They played totally free after that with all the risks and a lot of quality.

“They made offensive substitutions and suddenly had four players in the forward line and we couldn’t stop the crosses. We couldn’t stop the runners in the box.

“We were basically not physical enough. We couldn’t win duels and we couldn’t get hold of the ball. It was a total momentum shift from our goal.”

Tuchel said his players had given “everything” during the tournament.

“The conviction and the self-confidence after going 1-0 up was just not there,” he said.

“They [Argentina] played with a mindset of nothing to lose, took a lot of risks and we could not get the momentum back.”

England will co-host the European Championship in 2028, although they still have to qualify.

Asked if they were capable of winning a major tournament, Tuchel said: “Yes, of course we are, even if I have no proof of that at the moment.

“In big defeats it’s important to take them with respect, digest them, stick together, and second of all it’s about the reaction to it. Of course we feel very close and still Argentina showed the gap in the last half an hour.

“Unfortunately we were close and couldn’t push over the line. We wanted to push over the line and that’s our goal, and we are very, very disappointed and will try again.”

In the build-up to Argentina’s dramatic 2-1 World Cup semi-final win over England, former Manchester United full-back Neville described Romero and Martinez as “the best, worst centre-half pairing in the world”.

Both were booked in Wednesday’s feisty last-four match in Atlanta, but they also played a significant part in England being limited to only two shots on target as defending champions Argentina came from behind to win with late goals.

Romero and Martinez, who are both 28, have started all but one of Argentina’s World Cup games this summer, helping Lionel Scaloni’s side reach their second successive World Cup final.

“The only thing that I hope for is that when I retire, I am not that stupid. Hopefully I won’t criticise a player or anyone,” Tottenham defender Romero told DSports when he was asked about Neville’s punditry comments.

“Because at the end of the day, we are doing our best for our national team. Sometimes it goes right for us, sometimes badly, but we are just happy to be in a World Cup final again.

“I think we are making history, for us it is something really huge, and we feel the significance of this shirt like no-one else.”

Manchester United defender Martinez had his own say, explaining: “We’re used to people always talking about us. It seems like they like doing it, and we respond on the pitch, that’s it, always with respect.”

Romero and Martinez have helped Argentina keep two clean sheets in the six World Cup games when they have started together, with the team conceding six goals.

Neville, who won 85 caps for England and works for ITV and Sky, commented on the pair on the Overlap Podcast.

“They seem to give a goal away between them every single game,” said Neville.

“But you watch them, they are scoring goals, heading the ball, they’re literally everywhere – it’s incredible.

“I call them the best, worst centre-half pairing in the world. Because they absolutely at times can be unbelievable, but the next, it’s the sublime to the ridiculous.”

Argentina face Spain in Sunday’s World Cup final (20:00 BST) as they look to win the tournament for a fourth time, while England take on France in Saturday’s third-place match (22:00).

He had finally won the World Cup, aged 35, in what he said was his last game in the tournament and – depending on your point of view – cemented his place as football’s greatest ever player.

Four years before that, aged 31, many – including those around him – felt he had played his final World Cup game and would end his career without winning it.

And here he is at 39, having helped take England to the cleaners and send Argentina to their second World Cup final in a row.

Messi’s two assists helped the South American side come from behind to win 2-1, taking him up to four assists at the 2026 World Cup – to go with his eight goals.

The joint top scorer and the second highest assister in the whole show.

Argentina will play Spain, the country where Messi has played most of his football with Barcelona, in Sunday’s final in New Jersey.

“He’s the best player in history, I don’t know what else he would have to do to prove that. The majority of Spaniards love him,” said his national team boss Lionel Scaloni.

BBC pundit Micah Richards said: “They have Lionel Messi. They have the ‘GOAT’. The greatest of all time.

“[It’s about] moments. We thought it could have been Jude Bellingham or Harry Kane, but this is why he is the king.”

How Messi destroyed English hopes

Former Barcelona and Paris St-Germain forward Messi had never played England in his career before – and Thomas Tuchel and every Three Lions fan will wish that was still the case.

The veteran showed a few quality touches in an attritional first half – playing more centrally – but it was after Anthony Gordon gave England a 55th-minute lead that Argentina came to life.

As Tuchel sent on more defenders and England sat back, Argentina had 88% possession for the following 37 minutes.

And Messi had a field day after moving out to the right wing.

“Getting Messi on the wing was the key for us,” said goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez afterwards.

He completed nine dribbles and assisted two goals against England – the first player on record (from 1966 onwards) to do so in a single World Cup knockout game.

The entire England team combined completed seven successful dribbles in Atlanta.

Messi had seven touches in the opposition box – the same as every English player added together. Ditto his four chances created.

He also put in a game-high nine crosses.

And by far the most important, he set up both of Argentina’s goals.

The first was from a corner routine when he found Enzo Fernandez, who slammed in an 85th-minute equaliser from outside the box.

And then he crossed for Lautaro Martinez to head in an injury-time winner.

Ex-England defender Richards said: “He walks around the pitch and then he comes alive when the ball comes to his feet.

“This genius comes into play and sometimes that is just the difference.”

Former England keeper Joe Hart added: “The guys went back to what they did against Mexico and Norway where they locked the door.

“What that did was free up Lionel Messi, who had the skeleton key – he absolutely ran the show for the last 15 minutes.”

England captain Kane added: “For large parts of the game we dealt with him really well, but as always with the most dangerous players in the world when they have the ball they can create something. He’s one of the best players ever for a reason.”

Can Messi win the Golden Boot?

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Lionel Messi is Argentina’s runaway international top scorer with 125 goals

This summer Messi became the all-time top scorer at World Cups with 21 goals (out of his 125 Argentina goals in total).

Fifteen of those 21 have come since his 35th birthday.

Eight have been at this tournament, passing the seven he scored in 2022 – which was just one short of Kylian Mbappe in the Golden Boot race.

This time Messi and Mbappe are level on eight goals. Mbappe’s France play England on Saturday in the third-place play-off.

England’s Bellingham and Kane are on six goals each and not out of the picture.

If players finish level on goals, the tie-breaker is assists – with Messi on four to Mbappe’s three.

Messi could yet finish as the top assister at this summer’s World Cup too – sitting one goal behind France’s Michael Olise.

Former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson, speaking to the BBC, said: “He’s a little magician, he really is.

“He’s done it all tournament now. You look at the goals scored and the balls he’s put into England’s box.”

Will Messi ever slow down?

It is easy to forget Messi, then at Barcelona and aged 29, actually retired from international football in 2016.

He had lost the 2014 World Cup final to Germany and three Copa America finals.

Since reversing that decision he has won the Copa America twice.

When Messi – then of PSG – lifted the World Cup in Qatar in 2022, it felt as if the final piece of the jigsaw of his career was complete.

Many considered that the final thing missing from the argument over the best player ever – with many considering fellow World Cup winners Pele and Diego Maradona the greatest.

“I am very happy for finishing my journey in World Cups in a final, to play the last game in a final. That is really very gratifying,” he said before the 2022 final.

“There are a lot of years from this year to the next one. I don’t think I will be able to do that. To finish this way is brilliant.”

And when he left Europe the next year to join Inter Miami in the MLS, it seemed like he was going to wind down.

Even during last year’s Fifa Club World Cup, which he played in, it was far from clear if he would be involved this summer.

But here he is, still seemingly unstoppable – even though his game has changed.

Before the England tie, he had walked 47% of the distance he covered in this tournament, the highest percentage of any outfield player.

Tactically he has reinvented himself at least five times, says Spanish journalist Guillem Balague, who wrote a biography on Messi.

Messi has now scored or assisted in 13 consecutive matches for Inter Miami and Argentina.

If he gets involved in a goal in Sunday’s final against Spain, it will equal his record set in 2011 of 14 in a row.

He will also become only the second player after Cafu to play in three World Cup finals.

Surely that will be his final World Cup game? After all, he turns 43 in 2030.

But maybe at this stage we need to stop presuming anything when it comes to the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.

A 2-1 defeat by Argentina on Wednesday meant England’s men missed out on a first World Cup final appearance since 1966.

Tuchel was criticised for his substitutions as England squandered a 1-0 lead late on, but he has the full backing of FA chief executive Mark Bullingham.

The German signed a two-year contract extension in February having been appointed in January 2025 on an 18-month mission to win the World Cup.

The 2028 European Championship finals are being hosted by England, Wales, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland, and it was said that Tuchel viewed leading the side into a home Euros as a rare opportunity.

England will face France in the bronze-medal match on Saturday (22:00 BST) – and victory will mean this is their best performance in a men’s World Cup since 1966.

“It is heartbreaking to be so close,” said Bullingham.

“The players and Thomas gave it everything today and the squad, coaches and staff could not have worked harder during the tournament.

“I would like to thank them all – and also give my heartfelt thanks to our wonderful fans here in the USA and at home.”

Despite the disappointment of losing in the semi-final, England’s progress will be viewed internally as a relative success.

Tuchel said at his post-match news conference in Atlanta: “We keep on going with the contract until the home Euros.

“I’m looking forward to that even though right now it’s difficult to look that far ahead.

“Of course, it’s a semi-final; a lot of big football nations are eliminated before the semi-final, so it is an achievement.

“No-one wants to hear that at the moment; me neither because we demand the most of ourselves. That’s just the nature of being competitive.”

The clock inside the magnificent Atlanta Stadium showed England were five minutes of normal time away from ending the wait for a men’s World Cup final that stretches back to 1966, when they lifted the Jules Rimet trophy at Wembley.

England’s players and head coach Thomas Tuchel had immortality in their hands as they led through Anthony Gordon’s 55th-minute goal.

Their grasp, however, was being loosened by catastrophic decision making from Tuchel that instigated wave after wave of Argentina attacks orchestrated by Lionel Messi.

One goal seemed inevitable – and it came from Enzo Fernandez in the 85th minute.

Then, with England on the ropes, they were floored by Lautaro Martinez’s injury-time header.

England could not come back, so a stunned football nation wakes up to another desperate near-miss from this nearly team.

Tuchel fails in England mission

Tuchel’s unique selling point when he succeeded Sir Gareth Southgate was the idea he would win matches his predecessor could not.

That he would not be gripped by the caution Southgate was criticised for when losing the last two Euros finals to Italy and Spain, as well as the 2018 World Cup semi-final to Croatia.

The thinking was that Tuchel would drive England over the line, whereas Southgate supposedly retreated from it.

And yet, when it counted and the pressure was at its height, Tuchel produced the sort of tactical retreat – and loss – that would have seen Southgate pilloried.

Instead, it will now be Tuchel getting the criticism for that decision – and rightly so.

The Football Association went for a quick-fix appointment to succeed Southgate after Euro 2024, bringing in a proven winner whose sole mission was to win the 2026 World Cup, or put “a second star on the shirt” as Tuchel called it.

A semi-final can only rank as par, and, in the harshest light, a failure, because he was brought in to make sure England did not have any more hard-luck stories or disappointments.

And, as with Southgate, Tuchel has still not guided England to victory against a side there were not high expectations they would beat.

There will be recriminations about how Tuchel engineered England’s defeat mainly by his own hand, effectively repeating everything that brought Southgate so much criticism.

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: England head coach Thomas Tuchel is expected to lead the team into Euro 2028

Once Gordon put England ahead in this latest stormy episode of an old and bitter rivalry, Tuchel decided on a rearguard action.

That had worked for England in their knockout wins over Mexico and Norway – but it would not against a Messi-inspired Argentina.

Tuchel replaced goalscorer Gordon with defender Ezri Konsa with 18 minutes left and switched to a back five. He then brought Nico O’Reilly and Dan Burn on for Declan Rice and Reece James.

It was clear almost instantly that Tuchel had called it badly. It did nothing but invite Argentine pressure and those late goals. This one was almost all on Tuchel.

If there was one statistic that brutally condemned his approach, it was that England only had 12% possession between taking the lead and Martinez’s winning goal nearly 40 minutes later.

Such was England’s sudden attacking need in the closing moments that Tuchel threw on Ivan Toney after 96 minutes – his first appearance of the tournament.

Toney’s “blink and you’ll miss it” cap also brought some of Tuchel’s selections under scrutiny. Was Toney simply picked for a penalty shootout that never came?

And the debate around Tuchel’s defensive picks, especially at right-back, will continue to rage.

Tuchel gambled on the injury-prone Reece James staying fit – but when the Chelsea defender was sidelined with a hamstring issue, right-back suddenly became a problem position.

The position turned into musical chairs between Jarell Quansah – injured against Panama then sent off against Mexico – Djed Spence and Ezri Konsa before James was back for the semi-final.

All this while Trent Alexander-Arnold watched from afar, his natural gifts ignored by Tuchel on the basis of defensive frailty.

And as the ashes are raked over, Tuchel’s decision to ignore the creativity of Cole Palmer and Phil Foden – easy to say with hindsight given both had poor seasons with Chelsea and Manchester City – and Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White will be revisited.

Jordan Henderson, whose tournament ended in bizarre circumstances when he broke an arm amid the celebrations after the win against Mexico, was taken for his influence around the squad but was never going to be a serious on-field performer.

If Tuchel valued his professionalism and personality so much in this area, why not take Henderson on his backroom staff and open up a place for a younger, more creative player?

This was a desperate day for England – and Tuchel and his tactical approach.

A day when it could easily have been said, as the song goes: “Meet the new boss. Same as the old boss.”

Was this England’s most painful loss?

England have suffered plenty of pain over the years, but as an observer covering a seventh World Cup, as well as those Euro final defeats, this felt like the worst.

This was not because it was against the old adversary Argentina, with all the history and iconic imagery that evokes, who created such obvious despair among England’s players and supporters.

It was because this will be forever a World Cup semi-final of “what ifs” against an Argentina side that has looked beatable all tournament, but who simply refuse to lose.

This was the World Cup semi-final, the latest big chance to challenge for the sport’s greatest prize in New Jersey on Sunday.

England were within minutes of crossing the barrier that has proved insurmountable for six decades, only to stumble again.

Gordon’s goal looked to have finally given England a measure of control in an occasionally brutal game – and even after they ceded control and possession, the finishing line was in sight until they finally crumbled.

Given the stage, this is a defeat that will be pored over more – and leave more regret – than any other.

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: England suffered a second successive Euros final defeat under Sir Gareth Southgate in Berlin two years ago

What can England take away from World Cup?

England will always have that momentous, spine-tingling night at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City, when they dug deep to beat co-hosts Mexico 3-2 in the last 16.

It was one of their great World Cup wins, when Jude Bellingham proved his world-class credentials and Tuchel’s changes and gameplan suggested he just might be the strategist to take England all the way.

Bellingham is joined in that elite class by captain Harry Kane, but the Bayern Munich striker will feel the pain of this exit more acutely than most because he will be 36 by the time the next World Cup comes around.

England have shown reserves of character to come from behind against DR Congo in the last 32 then Norway in the quarter-final, but the times when they truly flowed have been few and far between.

The manner of this crushing loss to Argentina will have England and their fans wondering if the major tournament curse will ever end.

The recovery will need to be quick with a Nations League fixture at home to World Cup finalists Spain – who beat the Three Lions in the Euro 2024 final – in September.

What next for Tuchel?

The FA and Tuchel’s relationship was initially just to the end of this World Cup, but in February he was handed an extension to take him through to Euro 2028.

It was a surprise and a heavy financial commitment by the FA, especially as they did not know how the World Cup would work out.

Tuchel’s tournament cannot be judged as a total success, but he has the FA’s backing to lead the team into the next Euros.

England will have to undergo an element of rebuilding, with the outstanding John Stones surely at the end of his international career. And will Tuchel keep faith with Marcus Rashford?

Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford is 32 so should continue, but potential successors need to be found.

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Liverpool’s 17-year-old Rio Ngumoha is an England star of the future having made a big impression in the World Cup warm-up matches

Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson can be the midfield bedrock for years, while a fully-fit Bukayo Saka will be another huge asset.

Tuchel still has the talents of Foden, Palmer and Gibbs-White to consider, as well as Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, while Liverpool’s 17-year-old winger Rio Ngumoha showed what a glittering future he has in the World Cup warm-up games in Miami.

There is also the prodigious talent of Arsenal 16-year-old winger Max Dowman, another example of how England’s future can be bright.

For now, however, the pain of the loss to Argentina, and the manner of it, will take some getting over for England and Tuchel.

The defending world champions produced a dramatic late comeback in Atlanta, scoring twice to defeat Thomas Tuchel’s side 2-1 and book a showdown with Spain in Sunday’s final.

After the final whistle, Argentina players celebrated while holding a banner reading “Las Malvinas son Argentinas”, which translates as “The Falklands are Argentine”.

The Falkland Islands, a British overseas territory in the south-west Atlantic Ocean, remain the subject of a sovereignty dispute between Britain and Argentina.

The two nations went to war over the group of islands, situated 300 miles off Argentina’s east coast, from April to June 1982.

The 74-day conflict led to the deaths of 655 Argentine and 255 British servicemen. Three people from the islands also died.

In 2014, Fifa fined the Argentine Football Association £20,000 after its players held up a banner with the same message before a friendly against Slovenia.

World football’s governing body said the gesture had breached rules on political action and team misconduct.

After Wednesday’s victory, Argentina vice-president Victoria Villarruel posted on X, writing “it wasn’t just another match” alongside a video of what appeared to be Argentine soldiers.

“The Falklands are Argentine,” Villarruel posted. “They banned bringing them to the stadium and forgot that we carry them in our blood and our hearts.”

In the build-up to the game, Villarruel had said the semi-final was “about putting the invaders in their place”.

Argentina players also sang chants which referenced the Falklands and Argentina greats Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi following their dramatic 3-2 win over Egypt in the last 16.

However, before the semi-final, manager Lionel Scaloni had said he was “not going to mix” football and politics.

“The reality is that this is a football match. I can’t mix things up, especially out of respect for what happened so many years ago,” Scaloni had said.

“It was a very sad period in our history, and there isn’t much we can do about it, that’s the reality.

“Things are happening elsewhere in the world, and we criticise the existence of war. We certainly remember those people, of course. But it is a football match – we shouldn’t confuse the two.”

The semi-final, which England lost to late goals from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez, was held under increased security measures because of the historical tensions between the two nations.

Thomas Tuchel’s men looked to be on course to end a 60-year wait to progress from a World Cup semi-final when Anthony Gordon broke the deadlock with a smart finish from Morgan Rogers’ cross on 55 minutes.

It sparked what had been a fiery and tense stalemate into a thrilling contest as Lionel Messi inspired Argentina to move up several gears and lay siege to the England goal.

Jordan Pickford made a superb save to deny Nico Gonzalez and Alexis Mac Allister hit the post with a header, before Enzo Fernandez took Messi’s pass and thundered a 25-yard leveller into the corner five minutes from time.

Messi then conjured up his second assist of the game in the second minute of stoppage time with a wonderful cross for Lautaro Martinez to head home after Mac Allister had again hit the woodwork.

La Albiceleste will now meet Spain in the World Cup final on Sunday, July 19 at New York New Jersey Stadium. England will face France in the third-place final on Saturday.

The Three Lions slayed the Vikings of Norway in the previous round thanks to Jude Bellingham’s brace, while La Albiceleste took down the stubborn Swiss – thanks in the main to a sensational strike from Julian Alvarez.

Here’s the breakdown as England and Argentina battle for a spot in Sunday night’s final.

Head-to-head

Matches played 14

England wins 6

Argentina wins 3

Draws 5

England goals 24

Argentina goals 19

England and Argentina have met in 14 matches, with the Three Lions claiming six wins compared to three for Argentina, while five games have been drawn.

Five of their matches have come in the World Cup, and include iconic clashes such as the 1986 Quarterfinal in which Diego Maradona scored both goals in a 2-1 win for Argentina, and the 1998 Round of 16 match in which David Beckham was sent off and the South Americans advanced on penalties.

The teams’ most recent match was a friendly in Geneva in 2005 which England won 3-2.

Players to watch

England – Jude Bellingham

Tournament stats

– Appearances: 6

– Goals: 6

– Assists: 1

– Yellow/red cards: 1/0

A brace of goals in the Quarterfinal against Norway underlined Bellingham’s importance to England. He is not just a goal scorer, but a talismanic figure whose composure, leadership and determination inspires his teammates to lift their games.

Argentina – Lionel Messi

Tournament stats

– Appearances: 6

– Goals: 8

– Assists: 2

– Yellow/red cards: 0/0

Lionel Messi has been brilliant for Argentina in this tournament, with 10 goal involvements (8 goals, 2 assists). He may have struggled to assert himself against Switzerland this past weekend, but oyu can bet he will be hungry to take on the English defence.

Key stats

– 6 – Both Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham have scored 6 goals each for England at this World Cup.

– 3 – The 2026 World Cup is just the third time that the Three Lions have reached the semifinals of the tournament.

– 0 – Argentina have never lost a World Cup semifinal in four previous appearances in this round (1986, 1990, 2014 and 2022).

– 8 – Lionel Messi is the tournament’s co-leading scorer, having scored 8 times (level with France’s Kylian Mbappe).

Tactical battle

England and Argentina arrive in Atlanta with contrasting but equally dangerous identities. England under Thomas Tuchel are structured and adaptable, mixing controlled possession with mid-block pressing and rapid transitions, often funnelling attacks through Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane.

Argentina, by contrast, are fluid and unpredictable, shifting between systems while building around a technically dominant midfield and Lionel Messi’s free role between the lines.

The key battle will be central control: if England’s double pivot can disrupt Argentina’s rhythm, they can spring forward quickly. But if Argentina dictate tempo and isolate England’s defence, Messi and their runners can exploit gaps decisively.

Broadcast details

Wednesday 15 July

7PM: Semifinal 2 – England v Argentina – LIVE on SuperSport World Cup Central

The pair will resume one of international football’s most storied rivalries at the Atlanta Stadium, as England bid to defeat the defending champions and reach their first World Cup final since 1966.

Atlanta police are aware of historical tensions between the two countries.

In 1982, Britain and Argentina fought the Falklands War – a brief 74-day conflict that resulted in the deaths of 649 Argentine soldiers, 255 British combatants and three civilians. The British overseas territory, known in Argentina as Las Malvinas, remains the subject of a sovereignty dispute between the two countries.

In a statement, Atlanta Police said: “As Atlanta prepares to host an upcoming Fifa World Cup semi-final match and welcomes increased numbers of residents and visitors, the Atlanta Police Department has enhanced its citywide public safety and security posture.

“Additional personnel and resources are already deployed and will continue to be strategically assigned in and around the event venues, entertainment districts, and other high-traffic areas to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

“These proactive measures are designed to protect the public, deter criminal activity, and ensure residents and visitors can safely enjoy this historic event.”

After Argentina’s dramatic 3-2 win over Egypt in the last 16, players were filmed singing a chant referencing the islands and Argentina greats Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi.

Maradona inspired Argentina to victory over England in the 1986 World Cup quarter-finals as he scored the famous Hand of God goal, while captain Messi is set to face the Three Lions for the first time in his illustrious career.

Amid the build-up to the first World Cup match between the sides in 24 years, an Argentine war veterans federation has called on fans to focus on football rather than politics between the two countries.

“Sovereignty is defended in international forums through diplomacy, historical truth and the peaceful, non-negotiable claim enshrined in our national constitution,” the 2 April War Veterans Federation said in a statement.

“We consider it essential to draw a clear and unwavering line between sporting passion and the national cause.

“The ball rolls, pride in our colours multiplies, but memory remains intact.”

Earlier this week, England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford said it’s “just a game of football” and predicted “football will do its talking” during the match.

Police have praised the behaviour of England fans in the US but urged fans back home to follow their example after over 500 domestic football-related incidents over the weekend.

The incidents in the UK took place around England’s 2-1 extra-time win over Norway on Saturday, with more than 100 arrests.

England will be in their all-white home kit for the game at the Atlanta Stadium (20:00 BST), which will be shown live on the BBC.

They have only worn the darker kit once during the tournament, in their 3-1 win against Jordan in the group stage.

While the move could be because of kit regulations, it has also been suggested by media in Argentina that it is linked to superstition – with the kit associated with iconic World Cup wins over England in 1986 and 1998.

They defeated the Three Lions 2-1 in the 1986 quarter-finals, in which Diego Maradona scored the ‘Hand of God’ goal, and also secured a last-16 penalty shootout victory over their old rivals at the 1998 tournament in France.

The home and away kits were reversed in 2002 for their group-stage match in Japan, with England claiming a 1-0 victory in red while Argentina wore their traditional striped kit.

Fifa’s preference is for each team to wear its first-choice colours, but if there is a potential clash it will follow steps to ensure an acceptable colour contrast is found.

Football’s world governing body also tries to make sure there is a dark-kit and light-kit colour contrast, in the interests of fans with colour vision deficiency (colour blindness).

England booked their place in the semi-finals with a 2-1 extra-time victory against Norway on Saturday, while Argentina claimed a dramatic 3-1 win over 10-man Switzerland, also in extra time, on Sunday.

But there remains optimism the Arsenal midfielder can shake off the effects of an illness to play on Wednesday.

Rice, who suffered with a sickness bug in the lead-up to Saturday’s quarter-final victory over Norway in Miami, was substituted at half-time.

Head coach Thomas Tuchel admitted afterwards that Rice had spent three days in bed before the match, which England won 2-1 after extra time.

It is understood Rice still has not recovered fully from the illness – picked up in Mexico, where England beat the co-hosts 3-2 in the last 16 – but his condition has improved markedly over the past 48 hours.

As things stand, there is growing hope he will be well enough to start in Atlanta.

Rice is almost certain to rule himself fit for the semi-final given the enormity of the occasion.

But given the severity of the illness, England medics are set to make a late call on his availability.

And Tuchel will wait to see how rapidly his condition improves before making a final decision on whether to pick him.

In addition to his recovery from the sickness bug, Rice has also been carrying a neural problem for several months, affecting his lower back and hamstring.

The midfielder, who has 78 caps, has started all but one of England’s World Cup games so far, missing the 2-0 group-stage win over Panama because of an injury flare-up.

France, Spain, England and Argentina are now two wins away from the world title, and with a place in the final at stake, the margin for error is now almost non-existent.

So what can we look forward to in the last-four ties? This is your guide to the World Cup semi-finals.

Mbappe v Yamal – European heavyweights go head-to-head

France v Spain, Dallas Stadium, Tuesday 20:00 BST

What to watch out for: With two of Europe’s strongest squads going up against each other, this fixture has all the ingredients for becoming a World Cup classic.

Kylian Mbappe dominated the headlines again as France beat Morocco 2-0 to reach the semi-finals, taking his tally to eight goals for the tournament and moving just one behind Lionel Messi in the race to become the World Cup’s all-time top scorer.

But France’s biggest strength is their quality across the pitch, with Ousmane Dembele sealing the quarter-final victory and taking his own tally to five goals.

Michael Olise has provided the creative spark for Didier Deschamps’ side and leads the competition with five assists.

That depth could prove vital for the two-time winners against a Spain side who beat them 2-1 in the semi-finals on their way to winning the Euros in 2024.

There is a sense that Spain’s best football is yet to come.

Their star attraction, Lamine Yamal, is yet to truly announce himself at the World Cup. The Barcelona winger has scored only once – against Saudi Arabia in the group stage.

Four-goal Mikel Oyarzabal has blanked in the past two matches, so Luis de la Fuente’s side has needed late intervention from substitute Mikel Merino to edge past both Portugal and Belgium in the knockout rounds.

Looking to add to their 2010 triumph, Spain would hope Yamal, who will turn 19 on the eve of the tie, picks the semi-final to deliver a performance that justifies his talent.

Key stats: France will be playing in their eighth World Cup semi-final, equalling Brazil, with only Germany (12) featuring in more.

Spain are on the longest unbeaten run in their history and have now avoided defeat in each of their past 36 matches since a 1-0 loss to Colombia in March 2024. They have won 27 and drawn nine of their matches during that period.

This will be just the second World Cup meeting between the sides. Les Blues came from behind to win 3-1 when they met in the last 16 in 2006.

A rivalry renewed – old foes meet

England v Argentina, Atlanta Stadium, Wednesday 20:00 BST

What to watch out for: This will be England’s second World Cup semi-final since 2018, but defending champions Argentina stand in the Three Lions’ way of a first appearance in the final in 60 years.

It’s a fixture fraught with passion and rivalry – falling 40 years after Diego Maradona almost single-handedly dumped England out in the quarter-final stage in Mexico.

This time, Argentina have another superstar number 10 in their ranks. Lionel Messi has never faced England, and what bigger stage to do so for the first time than in a World Cup semi-final.

Messi, who became the World Cup’s all-time top goalscorer this tournament, currently leads the Golden Boot race alongside France’s Kylian Mbappe, with both on eight goals.

But England have their own iconic 10 in Jude Bellingham, who has scored twice in each of their past two knockout games – the first player to achieve such a feat since Maradona in 1986 – while captain Harry Kane is level with his team-mate on six goals so far this summer.

Neither nation have really been at their free-flowing peak so far this World Cup, battling and scrapping to victories in the knockout stages to reach this point.

It would not be a surprise to see Wednesday’s meeting also reduced to a battle of passionate wills, even if Thomas Tuchel has demanded his side show more quality than they did in the quarter-final win over Norway.

Key stats: England have reached the semi-finals in four major tournaments since 2018 – as many as they reached in their history prior to the 2018 World Cup.

The Three Lions have won four consecutive World Cup games, their longest winning run within a single edition since 1966.

Tuchel is only the second England manager to go unbeaten in his first six World Cup games in charge – the previous was Alf Ramsey in 1966, who had the exact same record after six matches (won five, drawn one).

Argentina have reached the World Cup last four for the third time in the past four editions – 2014, 2022, 2026. Prior to 2014, they hadn’t reached the semi-final since 1990.

And the progress of Spain (1), Argentina (2), France (3) and England (4) was aided by a Fifa change for the 2026 World Cup.

They were put in separate quadrants of the draw so they could not meet before the semi-finals.

For that to happen they had to each win their groups – which they did.

The separation in the draw meant that Spain could not meet Argentina before the final.

Additionally, England and France were put in opposite sides of the knockouts and on a path to meet either Spain or Argentina in the semi-finals if they all progressed.

Fifa described the move as ensuring “competitive balance” by establishing “two separate pathways to the semi-finals”.

And now the semi-finals are France v Spain on Tuesday, and England v Argentina on Wednesday.

A similar approach happens at Wimbledon, and in the new Champions League format, at which seeds are kept apart in pairs.

Fifa rankings were introduced in 1994, but not used for that year’s tournament.

Belgium (2022), Germany (2018), Spain (2014), Italy (2010) and France (2002) were ranked in the top four and did not get out of the group.

At the remaining World Cups since 1998 – the top ranked teams did not all get through to the semi-finals.

When Fifa officials changed the draw process for this World Cup they did so with complete transparency.

World football’s governing body said it wanted to ensure the four top-ranked countries could not meet earlier in the knockout rounds, thus potentially saving blockbuster games for later in the tournament.

It was not really a problem before.

In a 32-team World Cup, group winners could not face each other in the last 16.

You must go back to 2010 to find two of the world’s top four meeting before the semi-finals, when the Netherlands beat Brazil 2-1 in the quarter-finals.

The 48-team World Cup, with an extra knockout round, made early meetings between group winners not only possible but almost certain.

It happened in three games in this summer’s last 16, with United States playing Belgium, England facing Mexico and Switzerland meeting Colombia.

So Fifa felt it had to make a tweak due to the expanded format for 2026.

Fifa wanted to prevent one of these matches being a glitz and glamour game, and thus guarantee losing a top-four team.

The same ranking system was used for the Club World Cup last year, though one of the four top seeds (Real Madrid) made it to the semi-finals.

This time, it has worked out as Fifa intended.

Julian Alvarez settled a controversial match in extra time with a moment of brilliance, curling an unstoppable 25-yard effort past Swiss keeper Gregor Kobel to set up the meeting with Thomas Tuchel’s side.

It was heartbreak for Switzerland, which had defended valiantly after being reduced to 10 men during the second half in dramatic circumstances.

Star striker Breel Embolo was dramatically given a second yellow card for diving following a video assistant referee review.

Embolo initially appeared to be fouled near the halfway line by Leandro Paredes, who was booked. However, the referee was called by VAR to check under the mistaken identity rule, with the replay showing the Swiss player had clearly simulated contact.

The Paredes booking was quashed, and Embolo, who had already been booked, was sent off to his distress and Swiss outrage.

Just five minutes before Embolo was dismissed, Switzerland had deservedly equalised, having been the better team for much of this game against the reigning world champions.

Argentina may have anticipated a cruise to the last four when Alexis Mac Allister flicked home Lionel Messi’s corner at the near post with just 10 minutes gone.

But they failed to press their advantage, and Switzerland built into the game before Nottingham Forest winger Dan Ndoye struck after 67 minutes.

Ndoye cut in from the left, played a one-two with Ricardo Rodriguez and tucked his finish through the legs of Emiliano Martinez.

But Argentina assumed dominance after the Embolo red, and after long periods of struggle were blessed by Alvarez’s moment of genius.

Switzerland pushed for a second leveller, but they were caught on the counter, and Lautaro Martinez slotted home as Argentina kept their bid for back-to-back World Cups alive.

After being expected to steamroller past Cape Verde and Egypt in the first two knockout rounds, La Albiceleste had to fight tooth and nail for 3-2 victories.

But the win over Egypt came with an edge as the African nation asked Fifa to kick the officials in charge of their last-16 defeat out of the tournament.

Egypt have alleged bias in favour of Argentina and favouritism towards their star player, Lionel Messi.

After the game, coach Hossam Hassan said Egypt had been “treated unfairly” and “suffered injustice”.

Hassan went on to allege some kind of bias from Fifa.

“Perhaps they wanted to keep the world champion in the competition. Perhaps they wanted Messi to stay in the running,” he said.

BBC Sport examines whether there is anything in the conspiracy theory that everything is being set up for Argentina to succeed.

Is there any merit to Egypt’s complaints?

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan was booked for protesting after Argentina’s winner

It is easy to understand why Egypt would feel so frustrated after Tuesday’s 3-2 defeat.

The Africans had led 2-0 with 11 minutes to play, on the brink of a historic first-ever quarter-final appearance.

But it all went wrong as Argentina stormed back to turn the game on its head and score the winner in stoppage time.

Egypt say there was something more suspect at play. They put their exit down to “serious refereeing mistakes” and “double standards” from French referee Francois Letexier and his team.

The Pharaohs had a goal ruled out through a video assistant referee (VAR) intervention.

They also claim Argentina’s winner should have been disallowed, and a penalty awarded to them instead.

Mostafa Zico’s brilliant goal was chalked off after Marwan Attia was penalised for stepping on the foot of Lisandro Martinez at the start of the move.

It was controversial, but they were leading 1-0 and did score a second goal nine minutes later. You cannot prove the game would have taken a different path had Zico’s goal stood.

Egypt believed there were two potential penalty claims in their favour before Enzo Fernandez headed home the clinching goal.

Hamdi Fathy went to ground claiming he was held by Alexis Mac Allister, which was unclear on replays, while Mohamed Salah felt he was tripped by Julian Alvarez.

There were some similarities between the Martinez and Salah situations, with foot-on-foot contact, but not enough to constitute a penalty.

Egypt stood a better chance of getting the goal chalked off if Salah had been outside the area. The VAR would merely be judging a foul – as was the case with Martinez – rather than a penalty.

Controversial? Absolutely. But it is hardly proof of a conspiracy in favour of Messi.

France to face a complete team of Argentine officials

Take a look at the appointments for Thursday’s quarter-final between France and Morocco.

For the first time at this World Cup the whole on-field officiating team – referee, both assistants, fourth official and the reserve – are from the same country.

And that country is Argentina.

In Facundo Tello’s other two appointments, the fourth official and reserve were first from Saudi Arabia, and then Colombia.

The argument is that Argentina would want France to be knocked out. After all, they are the tournament favourites.

This is one of the biggest games of Tello’s career, his second World Cup quarter-final in successive tournaments. Such a high-profile referee is not going to act without the utmost integrity.

But perception is often just as important, and appointing Argentine officials against France in the quarter-finals is not a great look.

Messi avoids a red card and goes on to score five goals

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Lionel Messi escaped a VAR review for the kind of challenge that saw Folarin Balogun dismissed

Cast your minds back at the start of the tournament and a potential red card for Messi.

Messi did not even receive a booking for his challenge on Algeria captain Aissa Mandi.

Then, last week, occurred one of the most high-profile incidents of this World Cup.

Folarin Balogun was sent off on VAR review against Bosnia in similar circumstances. Both made contact on the opponent’s upper calf.

The United States are believed to have made this point when fighting to get Balogun’s ban removed.

If sent off, Messi would not have scored his second and third goals against Algeria, nor the double against Austria, as he would have been banned – unless Fifa decided to enact article 27 as it did with Balogun.

Messi would also have been unavailable for the final group game against Jordan when he again scored.

That takes away five of the eight goals he has scored at the tournament.

Was this special treatment of Messi?

Are referees showing Argentina fewer yellow cards?

The quarter-finals come with a risk. Seventeen players are one booking from being ruled out of potential semi-final.

There is not so much jeopardy for Argentina, with only Gonzalo Montiel at risk of missing a last-four date with England or Norway.

England coach Thomas Tuchel has four players on a booking, and that includes key players Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice.

Norway, who have received the fewest bookings, have only Antonio Nusa on a yellow.

To assess this you need to take into account just how ‘dirty’ a team has been. Does the number of yellows match the number of fouls?

Argentina have received a caution every 19.7 fouls.

Only three teams – Czech Republic (37.0), Norway (24.0) and Tunisia (27.0) – have a higher yellow-to-fouls ratio.

Of the teams still active, England have been treated most harshly, with a yellow card every 7.7 fouls.

Argentina have committed more fouls than England, yet have received half as many cautions.

This could suggest Argentina are treated more favourably compared to the number of fouls they commit.

Yellow cards for the remaining teams

Source: Opta

How Infantino has made sure Messi plays in the past

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Lionel Messi has scored eight goals at this World Cup and is now the competition’s all-time leading scorer on 21

Fifa president Gianni Infantino seems to like having Messi at his tournaments.

Take the inaugural Club World Cup last year, held in the United States.

There was a bit of a delay before it was confirmed which team from the host country would take part.

Surely it would be the 2025 champions? After all, this is a tournament for the best teams based on defined merit.

Close, but not quite.

Inter Miami won the 2024 MLS Supporters’ Shield, which is awarded to the team with the most points.

But it was LA Galaxy who went on to be crowned champions, winning the play-offs.

Yet Inter Miami were chosen for the Club World Cup.

That allowed Messi to play in the opening game, at Inter Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium, against Al Ahly.

The World Cup bracket favours Argentina

Fifa made a small but significant tweak to the World Cup draw in December.

The top four nations in the Fifa world ranking – France, Argentina, Spain and England – were drawn into separate quarters.

If those countries were to win their groups – which they did – they would not be able to meet until the semi-finals.

France and Spain are in one half and on course to meet in the semi-finals, with Argentina and England in the other.

The idea is it limits the chance of marquee ties early in the tournament.

But, depending on how the groups finish up, it also gives those countries a more favourable path.

In the first two knockout rounds, there were only two meetings of the world’s top 10 – Netherlands v Morocco and Spain v Portugal.

Argentina would appear to have been given the kindest route, even though they only just beat Cape Verde (67th in the world) and Egypt (29th) 3-2.

Next up in the quarter-finals it is Switzerland (19th).

England will not face one of the top 10 unless they come up against Argentina in the potential semi-final. They did have to beat Mexico (14th) in the Azteca.

Spain have beaten Portugal (5th) and now play Belgium (9th), while France meet Morocco (7th) in the quarters.

Argentina have had the best of this.

The penalties keep stacking up for Argentina

When Argentina won the World Cup in 2022 they set a new record in the process.

The five penalties they were awarded was the most any team had ever received in one tournament.

In 2026, they again lead the way with three spot-kicks – though Messi has missed two of them, against Austria and Egypt.

England and Switzerland have been awarded two, with Belgium, France and Norway on one.

The defending champions fell behind when Yasser Ibrahim won a battle in the air with Lisandro Martinez, before heading beyond Emiliano Martinez to give Egypt a shock lead.

Just minutes later, Argentina won a penalty when Nicolas Tagliafico was brought down by Haissem Hassan, and Messi had the chance to hit back instantly.

But he could not add to his tournament-leading seven goals, as he missed his second penalty of the 2026 World Cup to become the first player in history to miss two penalties (excluding shoot-outs) in a World Cup campaign.

In the second half, Mostafa Ziko thought he put Egypt 2-0 up after a thrilling counter-attack goal, before it was ruled out for a foul in the build-up. 

However, Ziko eventually did get his goal and Egypt’s second in the 67th minute to send Argentina’s hopes of becoming the first team to retain the World Cup for 64 years into huge doubt.

With 11 minutes on the clock, Cristian Romero grabbed one back for Argentina, heading home Messi’s pinpoint delivery to set up a frantic finale.

Just four minutes later, the ball dropped to Messi in the box, and he smashed a first-time strike off the underside of the bar and over the line to send the Atlanta Stadium into chaos.

With the game set for extra time, Argentina burst forward through Lautaro Martinez, who swung in a deep cross from the right for Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez to expertly guide a header into the far corner to clinch a dramatic win for Argentina.

It was close, but their title defence goes on, and they will play either Switzerland or Colombia in the quarter-final.

Footballing legends. National icons.

Argentina face Egypt in Atlanta on Tuesday (17:00 BST) for a place in the 2026 World Cup quarter-final. It is also a meeting of two of the game’s greatest players.

Messi, 39, and Salah, 34, are both in the autumn of their careers. Messi has already suggested this will be his last World Cup, although Salah is still hoping to play in 2030.

Their World Cup story is very different.

Messi is a World Cup winner. He is the tournament’s all-time top scorer, appearance maker and is joint top scorer this summer.

For Salah, it has been a different narrative. In his third World Cup for Egypt, this is his first time in the knockout rounds, with his country in the last 16 for the first time.

Egypt lost Africa Cup of Nations finals in 2017 and 2021 during his career, while Salah was involved in several public disagreements with the Egyptian Football Association over issues including image rights, travel arrangements and the team’s management.

His Panenka penalty helped his country make history though with a shootout victory over Australia in the last 32, and he will be hoping Tuesday will mark his biggest World Cup moment.

‘The closer to seeing a loved one leave, the more we miss them’

The most frequently mentioned word in Argentina right now is ‘bicampeonato’ (back-to-back World Cup championship).

But the question everybody is thinking, and nobody wants to mention, is ‘what will we do when Messi retires’?

Every new match the national team plays in the World Cup – such as the one against Egypt on Tuesday – is another step towards glory, a chance to achieve a feat only two other countries have managed (Italy in 1934 and 1938; Brazil in 1958 and 1962).

Yet, each match also brings us closer to the retirement of Argentine football’s greatest icon: the national team captain, Messi.

His goals in this tournament (seven), his new records (playing his sixth World Cup, scoring in eight consecutive World Cup matches), and dramatic encounters like the game against Cape Verde, have kept the country focused solely on the present moment.

To top it off, Messi is playing as if he were 25, not 39 years old.

But we all know that the man who led us to a World Cup victory (Qatar 2022) and two Copa America titles (Brazil 2021 and the United States 2024) is dancing his final tango in the albiceleste jersey.

So, every victory represents progress in the tournament but also one more opportunity to enjoy the man who managed to reach the same heights as Diego Maradona in our pantheon of football gods.

Interestingly, many Argentine sports journalists have criticised the fact that, in this World Cup, the national team has once again become “Messi-dependent”.

One of the great achievements attributed to manager Lionel Scaloni was being the first coach to build a team that complemented Messi rather than relying on him.

In the years prior to Scaloni’s arrival, the national team had endured a string of heartbreaks – the 2014 World Cup final loss in Brazil and two Copa America defeats on penalties in the final (Chile 2015 and the United States 2016) – but that changed under the current manager.

Now, only four of the 11 goals Argentina have scored in the United States were not netted by Messi; the two main strikers – Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez – seem to play merely as providers for the great captain, and the creative midfielders who stepped up in previous tournaments – Enzo Fernandez and Alexis Mac Allister – seem more focused on defending their own goal than on attacking the opponent’s.

As in a personal relationship, it seems that the closer we come to seeing a loved one leave, the more we need them.

‘He is pride, joy and inspiration’

Salah is much more than a footballer, he is pride, joy and inspiration.

He inspires millions of Egyptians every day. His story, from a small village in Nagrig to the biggest football stadiums in the world, makes every Egyptian feel proud.

He shows us that with hard work and belief, anything is possible. People see him and feel hope, not just in football, but in life.

What makes Salah even more special is who he is as a person. He is humble, calm and respectful. No matter how big he becomes, he never forgets where he came from. He always represents Egypt in the best way, and this is something we all truly value and admire.

Today, as we watch Egypt in the World Cup, the feeling is different when Salah is on the pitch.

When Egypt beat Australia in a tough match decided by penalties, the whole country was living every second together.

Hearts were beating fast, families were gathered, and when we won, it felt like one big celebration across Egypt. Salah was at the centre of that feeling – leading, inspiring and giving confidence to everyone.

Egyptians love Salah deeply. He brings people together and gives us moments we will always remember. When he plays, you can feel the whole country behind him, proud and hopeful.

To me personally, Salah inspires strength, patience and belief. He reminds us to always keep going and to stay true to ourselves.

Salah is not just a football star, he is a symbol of pride for every Egyptian.

Lionel Messi had marked a night of personal milestones with a magnificent opener to break the African minnows’ resistance, collecting Lisandro Martinez’s excellent long pass and lifting a wonderful finish over Vozinha just shy of the half hour.

It saw the 39-year-old become the first player in history to net in eight World Cup matches in a row on a day when he also broke the record for most ever appearances at the tournament (30).

Messi’s statistics overshadowed a lacklustre showing from the South Americans, which led to The Blue Sharks stunning the football world when Deroy Duarte equalised with a smart, low finish on 59 minutes.

La Albiceleste pushed for a late winner in normal time but Vozinha, whose heroics against Spain caught the imagination of the watching world, was at it again with a series of show-stopping saves to deny Messi and co.

Lionel Scaloni’s men regained the lead two minutes into extra-time through Lisandro Martinez, but the minnows levelled again when Sidny Cabral curled home one of the great World Cup goals from the left side of the area on 103 minutes.

Argentina came to the fore once more with Cristian Romero’s header from Messi’s corner deflecting into the goal off Diney Borges after 111 minutes.

Cabo Verde continued to press right until the final seconds but could not muster another equaliser and bowed out in a blaze of glory.

La Albiceleste will now meet Egypt in the Round of 16 on Tuesday, July 7 at Atlanta Stadium (17:00 BST kick off).

“I think Cape Verde can beat Argentina 1-0,” he said in an exclusive interview with the BBC.

“We are playing to win… when expectations are low regarding a team, and if that team has the urge to win, it is possible. A small nation like Cape Verde should make an effort to always do that – to permanently surprise people,” he said.

His comments come ahead of Friday’s clash between the Blue Sharks and Argentina’s national side, known as La Albiceleste, in Miami at 22:00 GMT.

This the first ever World Cup for Cape Verde – a group of 10 islands in the Atlantic Ocean – who have now made history a second time by becoming the smallest nation to reach the knockout stage.

They achieved an incredible goalless draw in their opening game against Spain, where 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha was the hero, before a 2-2 draw with two-time World Cup winners Uruguay.

Then came their goalless draw with Saudi Arabia on Saturday, which saw them finish as Group H runners-up after Spain’s win over Uruguay.

They now face Lionel Messi’s Argentina, bringing with them a newfound reputation for shocking their opponents.

Cape Verde’s team has “100% faith, 100% hope, and it would completely sweat out its jersey. So, we have a 100% chance to win against Argentina,” the country’s president told the BBC in the capital, Praia.

“We went to this World Cup to write our own destiny, which is, facing champions.

“So, we are going to face Argentina and Messi with the same determination, same will, and with a desire to win and reach the next phase,” he added.

It echoes the words of Pedro Leitão Brito, Cape Verde’s coach more commonly known as Bubista, who at the weekend said “to us, nothing is impossible,” while draped in his country’s flag at a news conference.

“From the very beginning, we’ve said that one of the purposes we had was to show our country to the rest of the world,” Bubista said.

“To be able to play Argentina and Messi in a phase like this is excellent for our country, regardless of the match itself.”

Midfielder Deroy Duarte has said he feels like he is “in a dream”, admitting that the tie against Argentina in the last 32 will be tough, “but let’s believe”.

“Anything is possible.”

But what happens if they lose? Cape Verde’s President Neves says there is no such thing as failure.

“Regardless of the outcome, we will leave the World Cup with our heads high and with a sense of mission accomplished.”

Messi, 39, leads the Golden Boot standings with five goals from his first two matches, including a double against Austria that made him the World Cup’s all-time record goalscorer.

Scaloni said the decision to rest the superstar was not injury related as he spoke before the match in Dallas, which will kick-off at 03:00 BST on Sunday.

“Leo [Messi] will most likely come on in the second half,” he said.

“We talked and agreed that it was better that way, but obviously it’s also good for him to stay in competitive form.”

He added: “The decision of who plays tomorrow is not related to who plays in the next match.

“Jordan is a good opponent, and our intention will be to have the ball and dominate through possession. The opponent’s forwards are fast and we will have to take that into account.”

Kylian Mbappe failed to add to his four goals in France’s 4-1 win over Norway, a game that saw Erling Haaland, also on four goals, stay on the bench.

But Ousmane Dembele put himself into Golden Boot contention with a first-half hat-trick to move to four goals for the tournament.

The forward, who turns 39 on Wednesday, got his 17th and 18th goals at tournaments to move two clear of Germany striker Miroslav Klose, whose tally came between 2002 and 2014.

Messi’s milestone moment came in the 38th minute of the Group J encounter in Dallas, sweeping home a first-time finish from just inside the penalty area after Thiago Almada had cleverly let Facundo Medina’s pull-back go through his legs to tee up his team-mate.

The talismanic frontman’s second came in second-half injury-time as he fired home from a tight angle past two Austrian defenders after Julian Alvarez had been denied by keeper Alexander Schlager.

However, Messi could have broken the record earlier in the match.

After only eight minutes, Argentina were awarded a penalty following Stefan Posch’s foul on Lautaro Martinez, with Austrian defender Xaver Schlager also making a challenge, but Messi fired the spot-kick wide.

That disappointment soon turned to celebration, though, in another display of his class on a historic night.

He is now the top scorer in the 2026 competition, with five goals in two matches following a hat-trick in the 3-0 win over Algeria in their opening group game.

Before Messi’s second, Austria – managed by former Manchester United boss Ralf Rangnick – had a chance to make it 1-1.

But Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez pushed away a powerful free-kick from Marcel Sabitzer, who was making his 100th international appearance.

Argentina, with six points, now join Mexico, the United States and Germany in having qualified for the last 32, and they will be confirmed as Group J winners if Jordan do not beat Algeria in the later game (Tuesday, 04:00 BST).

Having beaten Jordan in their opener, Austria still remain in contention on three points.

World Cup top goalscorers

• 18 Lionel Messi (Argentina, 2006-2026)
• 16 Miroslav Klose (Germany, 2002-2014)
• 15 Ronaldo (Brazil, 1994-2006)
• 14 Gerd Muller (West Germany, 1970-1974)
• 14 Kylian Mbappe (France, 2018-2026)
• 13 Just Fontaine (France, 1958)
• 12 Pele (Brazil, 1958-1970)
• 11 Sandor Kocsis (Hungary, 1954)
• 11 Jurgen Klinsmann (West Germany and Germany, 1990-1998)
• 10 Helmut Rahn (West Germany, 1954-1958)
• 10 Gary Lineker (England, 1986-1990)
• 10 Gabriel Batistuta (Argentina, 1994-2002)
• 10 Harry Kane (England, 2018-2026)
• 10 Teofilo Cubillas (Peru, 1970-1982)
• 10 Thomas Muller (Germany, 2010-2022)
• 10 Grzegorz Lato (Poland, 1974-1982)

“At this time, he is under medical supervision, recovering and progressing favourably within the condition he is experiencing,” the statement said.

Messi was in tears after scoring his first goal in Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Algeria in their opening World Cup match earlier this week.

Argentina’s captain, 38, went on to complete a hat-trick, drawing level with Miroslav Klose at the top of the all-time World Cup goalscoring list.

“Why did I cry? It was something completely unrelated to football,” Messi said after the match.

“I went through some difficult days, but I’m grateful to the entire delegation and my team-mates because they were always by my side, giving me a lot of strength to help me get through it.”

The family addressed the speculation around Jorge Messi’s health following that opening game.

“In light of speculation that has circulated in recent hours, the family wishes to express its deep discomfort with the lack of sensitivity, respect, and discretion with which some people have treated what is strictly a private family matter.

“The family also wishes to clarify that only his closest relatives have real and accurate information regarding Jorge’s condition. Therefore, any version, statement, or information that does not come directly from the family and its official channels should not be considered valid or truthful.”

The statement continued: “At times like these, we ask for responsibility, prudence, and humanity. A person’s health and the peace of mind of those around them should not be the subject of speculation or irresponsible media interest.

“We sincerely appreciate the expressions of affection, respect, and concern we have received, and we ask that Jorge’s privacy, confidentiality, and intimacy – as well as that of his entire family – be respected throughout this process.”

Argentina’s next group game is against Austria on Monday 22 June (18:00 BST), before their final group game against Jordan on Sunday 28 June (03:00 BST).

The Argentina captain claimed a magnificent hat-trick on his 200th appearance for his country as his side made the perfect start to their World Cup defence.

After a curling home a wonderful opener after 18 minutes, the 38-year-old was swarmed by team-mates in celebration before being spotted wiping away tears on his shirt.

“Why did I cry? It was something completely unrelated to football,” said Messi.

“I went through some difficult days, but I’m grateful to the entire delegation and my team-mates because they were always by my side, giving me a lot of strength to help me get through it.”

Messi’s hat-trick, which was his first at a World Cup, took his finals goal tally to 16, moving him level with Germany’s Miroslav Klose as the all-time leading scorer in the competition’s history.

Messi also became the first player in history to feature at six World Cups, 20 years to the day since his debut at the tournament, where he scored in a 6-0 win over Serbia and Montenegro.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner’s performance helped Argentina win their opening match at a World Cup as defending champions for the first time, after defeats in 1982 and 1990.

Messi’s record-breaking performance followed doubts about his fitness after he was substituted early due to muscle fatigue last month in his last MLS match with Inter Miami before the World Cup.

“It makes me very happy to have lived through everything that came my way,” Messi added.

“What I’m living through now is the cherry on top. I’m very happy and grateful for this wonderful group, I enjoy it so much.”

Messi was substituted after 80 minutes against Algeria to a standing ovation as his name echoed around the Kansas City Stadium.

Messi inspired Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar in 2022 to win the one trophy which had long eluded him, and he will be essential to Argentina’s hopes of becoming only the third nation to defend the trophy.

“There are no words to describe him. If anyone thought this team was better without Leo, today it was proven that the opposite is true,” said Argentina midfielder Alexis Mac Allister.

“He is our most important player. We need to build a team around him, and we are doing it.”

Argentina’s second match in Group J is against Austria on Monday 22 June (18:00 BST).

Hours after France’s Kylian Mbappe and Norway’s Erling Haaland had lit up the World Cup with two goals each, the stage was set.

But this was no supporting act, this was the main show. The Messi show.

His first World Cup hat-trick, a record-equalling 16th World Cup goal, and another reminder that despite his age, he isn’t going away.

Argentina beat Algeria 3-0, and Messi was at the centre of it all.

As the sun dipped behind the Kansas City skyline, the 38-year-old became the first player in history to feature at six World Cups – beating rival Cristiano Ronaldo by a day.

Twenty years ago to the day after his World Cup debut as an 18-year-old at Germany 2006, one of the game’s greatest superstars looked as sharp as ever in delivering another spectacular performance on his 200th appearance for his country.

There were a few moments of concern after his opener when Messi’s studs caught the top of Aissa Mandi’s heel just past the half hour mark but, no action was taken, and the Argentine took full advantage.

Afterwards, he said: “To enjoy this with my family, with my team-mates, the ones who are always there, is a really beautiful moment.

“The squad, it’s a very united, very strong group. I feel good; we were lucky enough to win a tough match. It’s important to start off with a win in the first game.

“I’m grateful to the fans, because once again they’ve shown that Argentina is crazy about this – we packed the stadium again.

“Everything I’m experiencing now is a bonus. I’ve been fortunate enough to achieve all my dreams — or even more than I ever dreamed of achieving — both professionally and personally.”

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni, added: “I don’t have the words to describe Messi. For 20 years, he’s had us used to seeing things like this and he inspires everyone who watches him play.”

‘Messi is celebrating like it’s his first World Cup goal’

There was an early glimpse of what was to come.

Four minutes in, Messi raced clear and put the ball past Algeria’s keeper, Luca Zidane, only for the offside flag to prevent what would have been a fairytale start. Fans celebrated as if they had won the World Cup. Journalists turned to each other with a look of the inevitable. It was happening. This was just a delay.

By the 18th minute, Messi’s moment arrived. Twenty-five yards out, he shifted on to his left foot and curled a superb effort towards the top-right corner.

Goalkeeper Zidane – son of France legend Zinedine – got both hands to it, but the strike had too much power. Kansas City Stadium exploded with noise as Argentina fans celebrated a tearful Messi’s 14th World Cup goal. It was the start of a historic evening.

As former Everton midfielder Leon Osman observed: “Messi is celebrating like it’s his first World Cup goal. With the ability he has, he never seems to age. It’s a brilliant ball into his feet and, as you’d expect, he finishes it superbly.”

Two decades on from his first appearance on this stage, and now in a record 27th World Cup match, Messi continues to defy his age. Throughout the match, he was constantly scanning for options, constantly anticipating Argentina’s next move. He looked fit, fast and threatening.

After 60 minutes, Messi struck again. A costly error from Zidane allowed the ball to roll into Messi’s path. With typical composure, Messi placed the ball into the net to move within one goal of becoming the joint-top scorer in World Cup history. In doing so, he became the oldest player to score two goals at the World Cup.

To this point, age has not blunted Messi’s ability. Since turning 35, he has scored 10 World Cup goals – more than Harry Kane, Diego Maradona, Cristiano Ronaldo and Thierry Henry have each scored in total.

The moment of history

In the 76th minute, Messi completed his hat-trick, having been teed up by substitute Nico Gonzalez. It was written in the stars.

And it meant that Messi had drawn level at the top of the all-time World Cup finals scoring chart with Germany’s Miroslav Klose.

With his arms raised, his eyes lifted to the sky, and thousands of Argentina fans cheering his name, he took it in. Even for Messi, this felt special. He turned to thank the thousands of supporters watching on as the stadium filled with noise.

As he was substituted, he left the pitch to a standing ovation. His name echoed around Kansas City.

Well beyond the final whistle, thousands of Argentina fans stayed in the stadium to continue the party.

It was a sea of blue and white, with drums beating relentlessly and Argentina fans in full voice.

Many wore Messi’s name on their backs, others showed off their tattoos of him. His name dominated every conversation.

For them, he is more than a player. ‘Hero’, ‘Idol’, ‘Our son’ are words Argentina fans here used to describe him.

He inspired Argentina to the World Cup four years ago. Who would back against Messi taking his country all the way again?

Even Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, usually the headline act in this stadium, watched on like everyone else, captivated by Messi’s magic.

On a day of superstars, the ageless Argentine stood above them all.

World Cup all-time top scorers

Messi lucky not to see red?

It would have been very different had Messi been shown a red card for a challenge in the first half with Argentina 1-0 ahead.

His studs appeared to go down the back of Mandi’s calf but neither referee Szymon Marciniak nor the video assistant referee (VAR) deemed it worthy of further action.

Former Manchester City defender Nedum Onuoha told ESPN: “It should have been a red card.

“The moment was missed. When the player was on the floor, you could see Messi had a level of concern because he had done something that could get him in trouble.”

Former France and Arsenal striker Thierry Henry told Fox Sports: “Intent is very important when you analyse these situations properly.

“When you watch it again, you can clearly see that Lionel Messi is focused on the ball and trying to make a football action, not trying to hurt anyone.

“Yes, there is contact. Yes, it looks awkward. But not every collision is a red card.”

And the mini magician equalled Miroslav Klose’s all-time World Cup goalscoring record with his third goal, bent from outside the penalty area into the bottom corner, just hours after Kylian Mbappe took his overall tally to only two behind the German great.

La Albiceleste got the defence of their title off to the perfect start in Kansas City with a clinical performance against the AFCON quarter-finalists, who had a first-half goal ruled out for a tight offside but whose threat diminished as the game progressed.

Messi sent the crowd into raptures after only six minutes when he latched onto a Lautaro Martinez pass and lifted it over Luca Zidane, but the goal was rightly ruled out for offside and moments later Fares Chaibi saw a carbon-copy effort also disallowed.

But Argentina didn’t have to wait long to get on the scoreboard, as Messi collected a Rodrigo De Paul pass between the lines, drove towards the penalty area then smashed his swerving shot through Zidane – son of French icon Zinedine – and into the net.

Argentina’s rotation between the midfield and forward lines caused trouble for Algeria throughout, but it took until the hour mark for them to make it really count again, when Zidane spilled an Alexis Mac Allister shot from distance and Messi was the quickest player to react, poking the ball into the bottom corner.

Algeria benched captain Riyad Mahrez in favour of a more youthful attack but rarely exposed the Argentine defence, and failed to record a shot on target all night despite throwing more and more men forwards as the game progressed.

And Messi wrote his name into the history books moments after a penalty shout was waved away, starting the counter with a clever pass to Nico Gonzalez, before recovering the ball and curling his third goal into the corner. He soon left the field for Nico Paz to a standing ovation.

Argentina’s next match is before Les Bleus’, so Messi will have the chance to break Klose’s record ahead of Mbappe, when La Seleccion face Austria on Monday. But even more importantly than that, it was a dominant performance by the defending champions in all phases of play as everyone in blue and white played their part.

After a year spent playing mostly inferior opposition, they showed they’ve lost none of their sharpness, putting a fancied Algeria side to the sword and now with one foot already in the knockout round.

Meanwhile, The Fennecs’ World Cup dreams are far from over, but they will need more incision to get their campaign back on track against Jordan.

The forward, who will turn 39 during the tournament, was named in Lionel Scaloni’s 26-man squad on Thursday after leading his country to a third World Cup triumph in Qatar four years ago with a penalty shootout victory over France.

With 26 appearances, Messi holds the current record for the most World Cup matches by any player – and will join Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, as the only male players to appear in a sixth edition of football’s biggest event this summer.

Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez, who was named the goalkeeper of the tournament in 2022, has been selected, as have Manchester United’s Lisandro Martinez and Tottenham’s Cristian Romero, who missed the end of the Premier League season with a knee injury.

Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister and Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez are also among the five British-based players in the squad for the finals, which will be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez and Inter’s Lautaro Martinez are among 17 players who lifted the trophy in 2022 returning to bid to retain it.

Argentina are in Group J and begin their campaign in Kansas City against Algeria (Wednesday, 17 June, 02:00 BST), before they play two games in Dallas, against Austria (Monday, 22 June, 18:00 BST) and Jordan (Sunday, 28 June, 02:00 BST).

Messi had been substituted during Inter Miami’s latest Major League Soccer match on Monday, but his club said he had not sustained an injury and was suffering from “muscle fatigue” in his left hamstring.

He has made 198 appearances for Argentina and will reach the 200-mark if he plays in both of his country’s friendly matches – against Honduras in Texas (Sunday, 7 June, 01:00 BST) and then against Iceland in Alabama (Tuesday, 9 June).

Notable absentees include in-form Aston Villa attacker Emi Buendia, whose Europa League final stunner was named goal of the tournament, forward Paolo Dybala, whose season at Roma has been disrupted by injury, and 18-year-old Real Madrid winger Franco Mastantuono.

With one cap, Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni also misses out, after Fifa said he would sit out the first two games of the tournament for abusing Vinicius Jr.

Argentina World Cup squad

Goalkeepers: Juan Musso (Atletico Madrid), Geronimo Rulli (Marseille), Emiliano Martinez (Aston Villa).

Defenders: Leonardo Balerdi (Marseille), Nicolas Tagliafico (Lyon), Gonzalo Montiel (River Plate), Lisandro Martinez (Manchester United), Cristian Romero (Tottenham), Nicolas Otamendi (Benfica), Facundo Medina (Marseille), Nahuel Molina (Atletico Madrid).

Midfielders: Leandro Paredes (River Plate), Rodrigo de Paul (Inter Miami), Valentin Barco (Strasbourg), Giovani lo Celso (Real Betis), Ezequiel Palacios (Bayer Leverkusen), Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool), Enzo Fernandez (Chelsea).

Forwards: Julian Alvarez (Atletico Madrid), Lionel Messi (Inter Miami), Nicolas Gonzalez (Atletico Madrid), Thiago Almada (Atletico Madrid), Giuliano Simeone (Atletico Madrid), Nico Paz (Como), Jose Manuel Lopez (Palmeiras), Lautaro Martinez (Inter Milan).

Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos later suggested the 38-year-old forward’s replacement against the Philadelphia Union was precautionary because of pitch conditions in a wet Miami.

The 2022 World Cup winner came off in the 73rd minute of the game after clutching the back of his left leg, but appeared to be walking normally as he headed straight down the tunnel.

“As far as I know, we don’t have a [medical] report on that yet, but he really was fatigued,” Hoyos said after the game when asked about Messi’s condition.

“He was tired; the pitch was heavy and when in doubt, the standard approach is always to ensure you don’t take any risks.”

Messi has not formally confirmed he plans to play for the defending champions in the World Cup, which begins on 11 June, but is widely expected to return for what will be a record-equalling sixth appearance at the finals which are being co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Argentina’s squad is due to be named next week, with their opening game against Algeria on 16 June.

Since moving to Miami in 2023, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has carefully managed his workload but has still spent spells on the sideline with hamstring issues.