Lionel Messi, Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane are among the stars set to feature in Wednesday’s match at Atalanta.
The latest chapter in one of world soccer’s greatest rivalries will be written on Wednesday as England and Argentina clash in the World Cup semi-finals in Atlanta.
The first match between the two countries in 21 years is sure to be a heated battle.
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Some of the biggest names in world football will be taking part in the match, including Lionel Messi, Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane.
Here’s a closer look at the key players who could decide Wednesday’s semifinals.
jude bellingham
2026 World Cup Statistics:
Goals: 6 Assists: 1 Minutes played: 574
The Real Madrid star was a vital player for England in this tournament, scoring some important goals to help the Three Lions reach the semi-finals.
He scored twice in England’s come-from-behind victory over Norway in Miami on Saturday, and also scored twice in their tough Round of 16 draw with Mexico.
These goals made him the first player since Diego Maradona in 1986 to score two goals in consecutive World Cup finals matches.
The 23-year-old is sure to play a big role in Wednesday’s important match.
harry kane
2026 World Cup Statistics:
Goals: 6 Assists: 1 Minutes played: 627
The Russia 2018 Golden Boot winner is aiming for an unprecedented second title after a prolific tournament.
Kane scored twice in England’s opening game against Croatia and repeated the feat in the first knockout match against the Democratic Republic of the Congo. He also scored the decisive penalty kick against Mexico at the Azteca Stadium.
Kane struggled in the Miami heat against Norway on Saturday, but returned to the air-conditioned comfort of Atlanta, the venue where he scored twice against the Democratic Republic of Congo.
England’s all-time leading scorer at the World Cup will be a major concern for Argentina heading into Wednesday’s draw.
anthony gordon
2026 World Cup Statistics:
Goals: 0 Assists: 3 Minutes played: 327
After signing for Barcelona from Newcastle on the eve of the World Cup, there was a lot of attention on Anthony Gordon in England’s early games.
After a slow start in the tournament, the left winger came alive in the knockout stages and set up Jude Bellingham for England’s opening game against Norway on Saturday.
England also won a penalty in Mexico City with a 3-1 victory over co-hosts Mexico.
lionel messi
2026 World Cup Statistics:
Goals: 8 Assists: 2 Minutes played: 608
The Argentina legend played a key role for his country in this tournament, scoring eight goals and setting up two more as the defending champions progressed to the last four.
He got off to a strong start, scoring a hat trick in Argentina’s opening game against Algeria.
Since then, he has scored goals against Austria, Jordan, Cape Verde and Egypt.
Messi has never played against England before and will be desperate to follow in the footsteps of Diego Maradona and defeat Argentina’s strong rivals.
Lautaro Martinez
2026 World Cup Statistics:
Goals: 2 Assists: 1 Minutes played: 347
The Inter Milan forward lit up the game on Saturday by scoring Argentina’s third goal at the end of extra time as the South American giants finally defeated Switzerland.
Messi was the center of attention for Argentina at this tournament, but Martinez had the best performance with two goals and one assist.
He has come off the bench in Argentina’s last two matches, but whether he starts or not, he remains a goal threat for La Albiceleste.
alexis mac allister
2026 World Cup Statistics:
Goals: 1 Assists: 1 Minutes played: 540
The Liverpool midfielder scored just 10 minutes after Messi’s cross to put Argentina ahead in Saturday’s quarter-final win over Switzerland.
He may not have the most eye-catching statistics in this competition, but the 27-year-old is an important part of Argentina’s midfield, linking defense and attack, and darting into the opposition box.
Mac Allister has started every game for Argentina at this World Cup and his experience in the English Premier League will be vital against the Three Lions on Wednesday.
