Lionel Messi is "more mortal now" and England should not fear facing him in the upcoming World Cup semifinal, according to former England international Gary Pallister. Pallister, speaking to GOAL, expressed confidence that the Three Lions possess the capability to end Argentina's World Cup title defense.
England is scheduled to play against the reigning champions on Wednesday. Questions have been raised about how to contain the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, who has shown no signs of slowing down despite his age. Messi has been a pivotal figure for Argentina in the 2026 World Cup, becoming the competition's all-time leading scorer and inspiring his team to a previous title in Qatar.
However, Pallister suggests that Messi's current capabilities do not match his peak performance. "Messi's not Messi of 10 years ago, I don't think," Pallister stated. "Yes, he's still pivotal to Argentina, he's still the go-to man, but I don't think he can do the damage that he did when he was at his peak. I don't think he can waltz through teams like he used to."
Pallister acknowledged Messi's continued technical skill and leadership, noting a recent exquisite goal as an example of his enduring threat. "He can score goals. He is the team leader in that side. He was four years ago and he still is now," Pallister said. "But I don't think he’s the player he was when he was taking Barcelona to European Cups and La Liga titles. Obviously he's still dangerous. He's more of a mortal now, I would say."
Despite Messi's continued danger in "little small pockets" and his ability to "manipulate the ball" and "score a goal," Pallister believes England's defense will be aware of him without resorting to man-marking. He indicated that England has "too much for Argentina on the night" and pointed to the strengths of players like captain Harry Kane and midfielder Jude Bellingham.
The former international also commented on the playing conditions, noting that the match will be played indoors in Atlanta, which he expects will be more comfortable for the players. "I think there'll be a belief in that team that they can win that game," Pallister added.
France, with Kylian Mbappé currently leading the Golden Boot race, is set to face Spain a day before England's match against Argentina. The outcome of both semifinals will determine who competes in the final.
Messi aims to be in the final, as do Kane, Bellingham, and the England squad, who are striving to end a 60-year wait for a major trophy. The upcoming semifinals are anticipated to feature moments of magic that could decide the course of the games.