Messi's reaction after Argentina players find England goalkeeper's secret penalty notes
Argentina defeated England 2-1 in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final after a late goal by Lautaro Martínez. Following the match, Lionel Messi and his teammates were seen examining Jordan Pickford's water bottle, which contained unused notes on Argentina's penalty takers.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the intense preparation and psychological games involved in high-stakes international football tournaments.
Argentina's dramatic 2-1 victory over England in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final produced another memorable moment after the final whistle, as Lionel Messi and several teammates were filmed inspecting Jordan Pickford's water bottle, which reportedly contained detailed notes on Argentina's penalty takers.The footage quickly went viral across social media after Argentina secured their place in Sunday's World Cup final against Spain.Argentina narrowly avoided a penalty shootoutEngland looked set to reach the final after Anthony Gordon gave Thomas Tuchel's side the lead in the 55th minute.But Argentina mounted another late comeback.
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