Lionel Messi's fitness is under close watch ahead of the semi‑final. The 39‑year‑old Argentine captain heads into the match after a cut above his right eye and a recent hit from Granit Xhaka. Messi has already netted eight goals in the 2026 finals, sharing the top spot on the goal‑scoring chart with Kylian Mbappe. Argentina, the title holders, will face England in what promises to be a tightly contested encounter.
Injury updates for Argentina
Messi has been prolific in the 2026 finals, sharing the top spot on the goal‑scoring chart with eight goals. During the quarter‑final against Switzerland, he suffered a cut above his eye after a clash with Granit Xhaka and required medical attention during the hydration break, with blood appearing above his eyelid. Despite the injury, Messi completed the full 120 minutes as Argentina secured a 3‑1 extra‑time victory, marking the first tournament match in which he did not score.
Teammates Cristian Romero and Leandro Paredes left the pitch in discomfort against Switzerland, with reports linking their unease to demanding travel schedules, heat and limited recovery time. Both players avoided serious injury and are expected to start against England, bolstering Argentina's defensive options as they prepare for their first appearance against England in this tournament.
England's midfield concerns
England hope that Declan Rice will be fit after battling a recent illness. The Arsenal midfielder was taken off at half‑time against Norway after picking up a bug in Mexico. England coach Thomas Tuchel explained a tactical shift made at half‑time, saying, "Declan, we made a decision in half-time to become more offensive, to have a bit of an offensive shift,"— Thomas Tuchel, England coach
Rice is still not at 100 per cent, but reports suggest he has shown enough improvement to be considered for the semi‑final. England could leave the decision on his participation until the last moment, keeping the option open as the team prepares for the crucial match.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Lionel Messi fit to play in the World Cup semi‑final against England?
Yes, Messi is expected to start despite a cut above his right eye; the article notes both teams are assessing his condition but he is likely to play.
What injury did Lionel Messi suffer in the quarter‑final versus Switzerland?
He suffered a cut above his right eye after a clash with Granit Xhaka, requiring medical attention during the hydration break.
How many goals has Messi scored in the 2026 World Cup so far?
Messi has scored eight goals in the 2026 finals, sharing the top spot on the scoring chart with Kylan Mbappé.
Will Declan Rice be available for England's semi‑final against Argentina?
Rice is still not at 100 percent after a recent illness, but reports suggest he has improved enough to be considered for the semi‑final, with the decision possibly left to the last moment.
When is the Argentina vs England World Cup semi‑final match?
The semi‑final is scheduled after the quarter‑finals, with Argentina set to meet England; the exact date and time are not specified in the article.
