For the first time in a career spanning more than 200 Argentina appearances and 125 goals, Lionel Messi will face England. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, who has never played the Three Lions, will lead his side in Wednesday’s World Cup semi-final in Atlanta, live on BBC One and iPlayer. Argentina reached that stage after a 3-1 extra-time victory over Switzerland, with Messi failing to score for the first time in the tournament despite remaining the Golden Boot leader on eight goals and the World Cup’s all-time top scorer.
But while England’s path to the last four has been paved with excitement – “everyone should be excited,” said BBC pundit Micah Richards, noting Messi’s “aura” and “spatial awareness” – it has also left a trail of online abuse aimed at the opponents they have beaten. Norway striker Alexander Sorloth and his girlfriend, Lena Selnes, became the latest targets after England won their quarter-final in extra time.
“Lionel Messi faces England for the first time in World Cup semi-final as Sorloth's girlfriend reveals abuse.”
Selnes posted a screenshot of seven hateful comments on her Instagram story, many urging Sorloth to commit suicide. “The World Cup and football bring a lot of joy, but also a lot of hate,” she wrote. “Hope everyone can think a little extra before making such comments, regardless of the situation.” Sorloth, who started all but one of Norway’s matches, was not on the pitch when England secured victory – he had been substituted midway through the second half – but that did not stop the abuse.
The Atletico Madrid striker had earlier been involved in a controversial moment just before half-time, when he chose not to pass to a better-placed Erling Haaland in a two-on-one break. “I take a touch and look up, and then I see that Stones blocks that pass,” Sorloth explained. “The only thing I want in that situation there is to pass to Erling. Then it feels like that pass isn’t there, and then I go for the shot.” England survived the scare and eventually won, but the aftermath has cast a shadow.
As England now prepare to face Messi and Argentina, former striker Wayne Rooney offered a warning: “Messi can be a weakness defensively, but he has big moments. Marking him is about concentration and communication.” Chris Sutton, on BBC Radio 5 Live, said England should relish the challenge, while Richards highlighted the Argentine’s unique qualities. Whatever happens on Wednesday, one thing is certain: Messi will finally experience what it means to face England – and the weight of expectation that comes with it.