India, July 13 -- Wayne Rooney believes Lionel Messi's limited defensive contribution could offer England a route to hurting Argentina when the two rivals meet in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final.

Messi has once again been Argentina's decisive figure during their title defence, scoring eight goals and helping Lionel Scaloni's side survive several difficult knockout contests. However, the 39-year-old is no longer expected to press relentlessly or track opposition players deep into his own half.

Argentina instead allow Messi to remain higher up the pitch, conserving his energy and ensuring he is available when they regain possession. Rooney believes that approach could leave exploitable space for an England side equipped with powerful r...