Lionel Messi vs. Jude Bellingham 🍿
These two continue to go at it in the semifinal 👀 https://t.co/iPOWkWuwnk Via @espn on X
What happened: Lionel Messi and Jude Bellingham renew their head-to-head in the World Cup semifinal, ESPN said Wednesday. The matchup pits two of the tournament's marquee names against each other with a spot in the final on the line.
Why it matters: Messi has carried his side to the final four despite a rare penalty miss against Egypt in the round of 16. Bellingham arrives fresh off being named Player of the Match in England's goalless draw, underscoring the contrasting form each brings into the semifinal.
By the numbers: Messi has missed his last two penalty attempts at this World Cup, including the one against Egypt in the round of 16.
What to watch: The semifinal winner advances to the World Cup final.