Lionel Messi is preparing for what he calls a “special” World Cup semifinal as Argentina gear up to face England in a heavyweight clash in Atlanta.

Both sides arrive through gruelling extra-time quarterfinals. England edged Norway 2-1, driven by a Jude Bellingham double, while Argentina needed a moment of brilliance from Julián Álvarez in extra time to finally subdue 10-man Switzerland 3-1.

For all the rich World Cup history between the nations, this will be Messi’s first international meeting with England. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has watched the rivalry from afar, steeped in images of Diego Maradona’s infamous “Hand of God” and his breathtaking solo goal in 1986, moments that still define the fixture for many fans.

“Everything I have seen and remember about Argentina versus England from 1986 is from videos and images that Argentinians constantly watch and relive,” Messi told ESPN Argentina. “Obviously, playing against England is special because they are a powerhouse, and matches against powerhouses are always special. Personally, it’s the first time I’m going to play against them. I’ve played against everyone except England, so it will be nice for that reason too.”

Messi stressed that his current squad is built to handle the occasion, insisting Argentina will treat it as another high-stakes test rather than a grudge match. Yet the backdrop is impossible to ignore. From Maradona’s exploits to David Beckham’s red card in 1998, and political tensions that have periodically spilled into football, the rivalry carries layers of meaning beyond the pitch.

“From the perspective off the field, it’s a match-up with a lot of history, with a lot of pain and a lot of story behind it,” said Argentina forward José Manuel López. “But we’re professionals, we will play it like we have the last games until the very end, giving our everything. It’s obviously a special match; it’s a semifinal of the World Cup. Since we started kicking the ball we dreamed of playing this. We don’t need more motivation than that.”

Álvarez, whose extra-time screamer broke Swiss resistance, echoed that respect for England’s quality. “We are very proud to be among the top four teams in the world,” he said. “England, we know, has impressive players. They are a great team that’s been doing things well, but we need to recuperate and prepare our game.”

The semifinal in Atlanta promises a collision of eras and narratives: Messi chasing another chapter in his World Cup legacy, and England seeking to rewrite their own story against Argentina’s greatest icon.