Former Manchester City defender Micah Richards has warned that England face an enormous challenge in their FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final against Argentina, citing the unique threat posed by Lionel Messi.

England reached the last four by eliminating Norway in the quarter-finals, while Argentina progressed in harder fashion — grinding out a 3-1 extra-time win over Switzerland before booking their place in the semis.

Speaking to BBC Sport, Richards acknowledged England's fighting spirit but stressed that the squad has serious work ahead. "We all know they didn't play well enough to go and win the tournament. But there's something about getting over the line," he said.

The former defender drew comparisons to Real Madrid's remarkable late comebacks in Champions League campaigns against Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester City, and Chelsea. "It's just that bit of England's game that I'm enjoying at the moment — where they can find a way to win," Richards added.

He was equally candid about how much ground England must cover before they can claim the trophy. "The manager was completely right in what he said. He knows it wasn't good enough. They got the job done — but there's loads of work to do if you want to win the World Cup."

The Messi problem

Richards reserved his most pointed warning for England's task of containing Messi. He acknowledged that England can match Argentina physically, but insisted the entire Argentine system revolves around one man.

"England can outrun Argentina but they just have that little genius Messi. They all play for him. Everyone should be excited," he told BBC Sport.

According to Richards, Messi's movement makes traditional marking almost impossible. "He doesn't run back. He goes into little spaces where he shouldn't really be. He switches on at the right times, he's got the best technique, his spatial awareness is fantastic, and he's got a great shot."

It is a combination, Richards implied, that England's defence has rarely — if ever — had to deal with at this level.