Tuchel backs England to stop Messi in World Cup semi-final

England manager Thomas Tuchel is confident his side can contain Argentina captain Lionel Messi when both teams meet in Wednesday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final.

The Three Lions head into the clash after defeating Norway in the quarter-finals, where they successfully kept striker Erling Haaland quiet. Tuchel believes that performance provides confidence ahead of facing another of football’s biggest stars.

Tuchel outlines England’s plan

The England boss acknowledged Messi’s quality but said his team would focus on limiting the support around the Argentina captain rather than the forward alone.

“It’s incredible how he just pulls it off every single time – in so many different ways,” Tuchel said.

“He finds spaces, he finds moments and the big thing is the whole team buys into that idea.

“We must be brave around him and just stop the support. He’s a different player from Erling Haaland but we did well against Erling, so we’ll find a way now.”

England are aiming to reach their first World Cup final since 1966 and will face reigning champions Argentina for a place in Sunday’s showpiece against Spain.

Kane urges focus on Argentina

England captain Harry Kane warned his teammates against concentrating solely on Messi, insisting Argentina possess quality across the pitch.

“He’s been one of, if not the best, player in the world for almost 20 years,” Kane said.

“Everyone knows how dangerous it can be. But we play Argentina – not against Messi. We come up against a great unit, a great team with fantastic players.”

Kane also reflected on the significance of the occasion after becoming England’s most-capped outfield player.

“What an occasion; the world champions in a semi-final. I think back to being a kid and having dreams of playing in these games. This is as big as it gets.”

England have also received a fitness boost, with midfielder Declan Rice expected to return after recovering from illness that forced him off during the quarter-final victory over Norway.

Tuchel believes his players are ready for the challenge.

“This is the time to go for it,” he said.

“I feel another change of mood in the camp. ‘Oh wow, we’re close now’.”

The winners will face Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final after the European champions defeated France 2-0 in the other semi-final.