Top News

England have the talent and depth to overcome Argentina in their high-stakes World Cup semi-final, but their success will depend on whether they can neutralise the influence of Lionel Messi. Former Manchester United and Arsenal defender Mikael Silvestre has cautioned Thomas Tuchel’s side that the Inter Miami icon is most threatening when he appears to be least involved, quietly analysing the game before delivering his decisive moments.

Silvestre’s strategic plan to contain Messi

As the Three Lions gear up for their crucial encounter in Atlanta, much of the tactical discussion has revolved around how to manage Messi — older, but still capable of brilliance at any moment.

Silvestre, who came up against the Argentine maestro during his Champions League days, stressed that communication across the defensive unit will be key. He warned that England cannot afford to lose focus even when the 39-year-old seems to be merely strolling across the pitch.

“England can win if they control the game and control Messi. That’s the one part of the equation. I don’t mean man-mark him — you must remain alert to him even when he’s walking, because when he’s walking, he’s preparing his magic move, studying what to do next,” Silvestre said on the Could It Be Coming Home podcast.

He further emphasised that the defensive line must maintain constant communication with the midfield to monitor Messi’s movements between the lines, warning that his “acceleration over the first five or six yards” remains one of his most dangerous weapons.

The walking numbers that defy conventional wisdom

Although some may interpret Messi’s walking as a sign of slowing down, the data shows it is a deliberate tactical approach. Statistics indicate that Messi has walked for 47% of the total distance he has covered during this World Cup campaign.

This energy management allows him to stay fresh for explosive bursts and creative passes, keeping him competitive with Kylian Mbappe in the Golden Boot race.

Reflecting on his own encounters with the Argentine star, Silvestre said: “I played against Messi. At times he just vanishes. He drifts into positions where you forget he’s there. You need to talk to each other more than usual. That’s crucial for the back four, who must communicate with the midfield constantly — tell each other when he’s on the right shoulder, the left shoulder — constant awareness is vital.”

Argentina’s ageing core offers England an opening

Despite Argentina’s status as reigning champions and their reputation for thriving in major tournaments, Silvestre believes this version of the team is past its peak compared to the one that triumphed in Qatar. He pointed out that Lionel Scaloni’s dependence on an experienced, largely unchanged starting XI could backfire as fatigue sets in after multiple knockout games that went to extra time.

“Argentina are similar to what they were four years ago, but not quite the same, because they’re an ageing side,” said the Frenchman. “This year, it’s a team England should be able to beat. It’s not the same as before. In terms of fitness, they’ve played a lot of extra time, and at some point, that will take its toll because they don’t rotate much. It’s almost always the same eleven starting, so this time, it’s an easier challenge than four years ago.”

The lucky charm in Argentina’s corner

While Silvestre’s analysis focused on the physical and tactical elements, England must also be mindful of the historical coincidences surrounding the match officials. FIFA has confirmed that American referee Ismail Elfath will take charge of the semi-final — a fact that has drawn attention given Messi’s perfect record in matches officiated by the MLS-based referee. Elfath also served as fourth official during the 2022 World Cup final, further linking him to Argentina’s recent success.

Nevertheless, Silvestre remains confident that England can reach a dream final against his native France. He concluded by acknowledging Argentina’s ability to control the tempo of matches — “they know when to speed things up and when to slow them down” — but insisted that this England team possesses the quality to end South America’s grip on the trophy. “A France versus England final would be great — we’re tired of seeing Argentina there. England have to beat them first!”