https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7367934/2026/06/16/lionel-messi-argentina-algeria-result/
As England prepares to face Argentina in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final, the focus is on how the English team can prevent Lionel Messi from achieving yet another historic milestone. The match, set to take place on July 15 at Atlanta Stadium, brings together two teams that have not met in a competitive match for over two decades. Messi, the 38-year-old Argentine captain, is on the brink of potentially securing his fifth World Cup title, adding to his record of 48 official titles. England, led by key players Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham, faces the challenge of stopping Messi’s charge towards further glory.
Market dynamics around Argentina’s potential elimination from the World Cup have shown a notable shift. The possibility of Argentina being eliminated in the semifinals is currently priced at 55% YES, reflecting an increase from 28% just a week ago. This movement suggests that market participants are increasingly considering the scenario where Argentina’s journey in the tournament may end at this stage. However, the likelihood of Argentina winning the World Cup stands at 18% YES, indicating cautious optimism about Messi’s team advancing further.
