Lionel Messi has played over 200 times for Argentina but never faced England—until Wednesday's 2026 World Cup semifinal. The teams last met in a 2005 friendly, the year Messi debuted. "Playing against England is special because they are a powerhouse," Messi told ESPN. "It's the first time I'm going to play against them."

Ahead of this historic matchup, here's Messi's record against top nations:

Brazil: 14 matches (6W, 2D, 6L), 5 goals, 0 assists. Never scored in a competitive fixture; all goals in friendlies. Highlight: 2012 hat trick in 4-3 win.

France: 3 matches (2W, 1L), 3 goals, 2 assists. Scored twice in 2022 World Cup final win; two assists in 2018 loss to Mbappé's France.

Germany: 4 matches (2W, 2L), 1 goal. Only beat Germany in friendlies (2010, 2012). Lost 2010 and 2014 World Cup meetings.

Italy: 1 match (1W), 0 goals, 2 assists. Won 2022 Finalissima 3-0 at Wembley, earning Player of the Match.

Spain: 3 matches (1W, 2L), 2 goals. All friendlies. Won 4-1 in Buenos Aires in 2010 with a chip goal.