BBC Sport reports that Lionel Messi delivered a standout performance to eliminate England from the World Cup and secure a place in his third World Cup final.
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Key facts
- Lionel Messi has set up a third World Cup final appearance.
- BBC Sport described his display as a 'masterclass'.
- Messi played on the right wing in the match.
- England were knocked out of the World Cup.
Lionel Messi produced what BBC Sport called a masterclass to knock England out of the World Cup and book his place in a third World Cup final.
According to the BBC, Messi operated on the right wing during the match, a role from which he shaped the outcome of the tie against England.
The performance was significant enough for BBC Sport to frame it around the idea that Messi remains ‘the king’ of the game, a nod to his continued influence at the highest level of international football.
With this result, England’s World Cup campaign came to an end, while Messi advanced toward another chance to compete for the sport’s biggest prize.
BBC Sport’s coverage centred on breaking down how Messi’s positioning and play on the right flank proved decisive in the outcome.
Why it matters
Reaching a third World Cup final underlines Lionel Messi's enduring status as one of football's defining players. For England, the defeat marks the end of another tournament in which the team fell short of the final.
Frequently asked questions
Who did Messi help knock out of the World Cup?
According to BBC Sport, Messi's performance knocked England out of the World Cup.
What position did Messi play in the match?
BBC Sport reports that Messi played on the right wing during the game.
How many World Cup finals has Messi now reached?
BBC Sport says Messi has set up his third World Cup final.
Timeline
- 'That's why he's the king' – Messi sets up third World Cup final
BBC Sport: BBC Sport looks at Lionel Messi's masterclass on the right wing to knock England out of the World Cup.