Even at 39, Messi can still hurt England with his sprinting ability
Quick summary
The Guardian analyzes how Lionel Messi's pace remains a threat ahead of Argentina's World Cup 2026 semi-final against England.
Full article
Attributed to original sourceThe Argentina captain conserves his energy for bursts in key moments and his top speed compares favourably with his contemporaries
England’s defenders will face an extreme challenge when they come up against Lionel Messi in their World Cup semi-final. It is not just that he is the greatest player of all time but the almost unique way in which he plays.
The 39-year-old is renowned for ambling around for much of a game, saving his energy for when truly required. It makes him incredibly difficult to defend against. Messi finds pockets of space that appear harmless when the ball is not in his orbit, but he springs to life when an opportunity to produce presents itself.
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What happened
A Guardian tactical editorial examining Lionel Messi's enduring physical threat at age 39, particularly his underrated sprinting ability, ahead of Argentina's World Cup 2026 semi-final clash with England. The piece contextualizes Messi's fitness and movement as a key factor England must neutralize, while noting how his role has evolved over time. It frames the upcoming semi-final as a high-stakes encounter where Messi's lingering speed could still be decisive.
Chance analysis
Previews a World Cup semi-final between Argentina and England, with Messi's pace highlighted as a tactical variable England must plan for. For prediction purposes, the article underscores that Argentina's attacking threat is not purely creative but still carries a direct physical dimension. England's defensive preparation — likely focused on midfield pressing and channel control — will be tested by Messi's movement off the ball.
Likely intensifies scrutiny on England's defensive shape and midfield pressing plan ahead of the semi-final, with Messi flagged as a dual creative-and-pace threat.
Argentina's attacking threat retains a direct speed element via Messi, which should marginally increase England's defensive workload and the likelihood of fouls or transitions in wide areas.