7M - Anti-Lionel Messi Backlash Surges in England Following World Cup

England's painful elimination by Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals has triggered a wave of media backlash and public debate across the United Kingdom targeting Lionel Messi and the Argentine squad.

The tension intensified following a dramatic 2–1 semifinal defeat, where Messi assisted both late goals to complete a comeback against England. Discussions escalated further over a controversial play leading to Argentina's winning goal, as well as political friction surrounding the Falkland Islands banner displayed by members of the Argentine delegation.

In the days following Argentina's subsequent loss to Spain in the final, British media outlets—most notably the Daily Mail—published highly critical coverage questioning Messi's performance and accusing the Argentine team of dark arts. According to polling data from YouGov, public perception of the Argentine captain in England saw a notable shift, moving from widespread respect to a significantly more divided sentiment following the Three Lions' exit.