Jude Bellingham reacts to defeat against Argentina in FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final game

Bellingham also revealed his conversation with Lionel Messi.

England’s Jude Bellingham said that a furious argument with Lionel Messi early in Wednesday’s World Cup semi-final match was about an uncalled foul, but downplayed the impact of the viral incident.

Early in the contest at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, there were several tackles and fouls, which resulted in multiple player confrontations.

During a violent altercation, two of the tournament’s best players engaged in a lengthy fight. Messi finished the argument by gazing down at Bellingham and nodding dismissively.

Jude Bellingham explains his conversation with Lionel Messi

The photographs were widely circulated on social media, notably Messi’s expression near the end of the altercation.

“[We were] discussing a foul, actually,” Jude Bellingham said. “But it was nothing bad. I’m sure everyone will do their thing and make it a big deal. But no, it was nothing really.”

“I thought there was a foul earlier and he said, ‘Well what about the one on me?’ and I was kind of saying, ‘You’re strong enough to take it,’ you know what I mean?”

“It’s privilege to play against [Messi],” Jude Bellingham said. “There was nothing against him. I’m obviously on the losing side which hurts a lot, but it’s a privilege to go against him.”

Jude Bellingham speaks after defeat against Argentina

“It’s a very sad day for us. We played well, we fought a lot, but it couldn’t be.” 

“It’s so gutting. I wanted to be a part of the England squad that finally done it, finally got it over the line. To be here telling the fans the same things they’ve probably heard for years and years, it’s really gutting.” 

” I wish I could say more, give 1 or 2 more wins, but yeah, at the moment my head’s a bit fuzzy with disappointment.” 

I’m sorry.”

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