CORNERFLICK
Lionel Messi has admitted Argentina face a difficult task against England in the World Cup semi-finals, describing the match-up as special because he has never played against them before.
England will be the 63rd different national team Messi has faced in his international career. The Argentina captain said the Three Lions are a major football power and added that it is always exciting to meet opponents of that level.
Messi also pointed to the physical toll on Argentina after extra-time matches in the knockout rounds. He said the squad will rest and prepare for the semi-final after a demanding run.
Messi has made 205 appearances for Argentina, scoring 125 goals and providing 64 assists. His first international appearance came in a friendly against Hungary in August 2005, while his first competitive game followed against Peru in October that year. He scored his first international goal against Croatia in March 2006.