# Playing Against Messi Was a Privilege, Says Bellingham

> England midfielder Jude Bellingham said his viral on-field clash with Lionel Messi during the World Cup semifinal was "nothing bad," explaining it was only a disagreement over an uncalled foul. Despite England's 2-1 def…

Published: 2026-07-16 · Desk: Latest · Source: USA Today

England midfielder Jude Bellingham said his viral on-field clash with Lionel Messi during the World Cup semifinal was just a disagreement over an uncalled foul and "nothing bad." He explained that they exchanged words about earlier challenges, insisting the incident had been exaggerated.

Despite England's heartbreaking 2-1 defeat, with late goals from Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez both set up by Messi, Bellingham praised the Argentine captain, saying it was a privilege to play against a footballer widely regarded as the greatest of all time.

Original reporting: https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/soccer/worldcup/2026/07/15/jude-bellingham-lionel-messi-exchange-england-argentina-world-cup/90937668007/
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