The Messi arc reaches a decisive point in Atlanta – passage to a third final or an exit to test the limits of Argentina’s love for their unassuming athlete-genius

DANIEL MATTHEWS IN KANSAS CITY: What a night it should be and what a glorious quirk of Messi's marathon international career, the 39-year-old has never faced England.

England will meet fierce rivals Argentina in the World Cup semi final with the two nations going head to head in Atlanta for a place in next weekend's final

Argentina has developed habit of dramatic ties and history against England is no exception