England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford has faced many challenges in his exceptional career, from World Cup penalty shootouts to semi-final matches and encounters with the game's biggest stars, but a new test awaits him that he has never before experienced.

This anticipated showdown comes in the semi-finals of the World Cup being held in the United States, as England seeks its first title since 1966.

When England meets Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, in the World Cup semi-final on Wednesday in Atlanta, Pickford will face the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner for the first time.

This match carries historical significance for Pickford, who broke Peter Shilton's record for most World Cup appearances after starting for the 18th time in the tournament against Norway in the quarter-finals.

The 32-year-old Everton goalkeeper was eight years old when England last faced Argentina, in the group stage of the 2002 World Cup.

Pickford told reporters on Monday: 'I remember sitting on the floor at school watching the match when the teacher brought in the TV, so I'll never forget that moment.'

Pickford continued his comments on Messi (39), who is playing in his sixth World Cup, saying: 'He has scored and provided many goals throughout his career, and it's great to finally be able to face him after all these years, especially since I watched him as a child.'

But the goalkeeper warned against considering the Argentina team as a one-man side.

Pickford said: 'We all know how brilliant Messi is, but we also know how strong Argentina are. We have our own view on their other strengths as well, and their weaknesses we can exploit.'

England entered the tournament among the favorites and overcame several difficult situations, including a 10-man victory over Mexico, and Pickford said that underscores the cohesion that has become a hallmark of coach Thomas Tuchel's squad.

He added: 'I've always said that cohesion is what drives you to success. Then skill also shows. And when you have cohesion like we do, it's a great tool.'

Referee Decisions

Argentina's path to the semi-finals has been accompanied by complaints about refereeing decisions and the team's mastery of what is described as football's dark arts, but Pickford said England will not be distracted by anything.

The goalkeeper added: 'Throughout the tournament, you've seen our desire to win titles. We haven't been involved in any altercations or anything like that; we've had great respect on the pitch. Sometimes decisions go our way, sometimes they don't. We just reset and let the football do the talking.'

He continued: 'Apart from Jarell Quansah, who was suspended for two matches, we haven't had any bans or anything like that. That shows the mentality we have; we don't get involved in such things. We stay focused and united.'

Tuchel surprised many after the win over Norway when he angrily pointed out areas England need to improve, and Pickford agreed the team has not yet reached its best level.

Pickford said: 'As the coach said, we have the mentality and cohesion, but we haven't hit top form. Hopefully we can show our best. We'll always keep working harder to keep improving.'

Pickford was England's goalkeeper for the penalty shootout in the Round of 16 against Colombia at the 2018 World Cup, saving Carlos Bacca's spot-kick before Eric Dier scored the decisive penalty for England's first World Cup shootout win.

Pickford said the players intend to prove they are worthy of the trust of a nation dreaming of World Cup glory for the first time since 1966.

He added: 'You know how we feel; you see us after every match, and our people's support for us is clear. We know how much this means to them, and we also know how much it means to us, and we really appreciate them enjoying it. We do it for them too; we know the Argentina match will be tough, but we want to put smiles on (the fans') faces.'

This match represents a real test for England's defense led by Pickford, against one of the greatest players in history. The English team's morale is high after overcoming tough obstacles in the tournament, making it a strong candidate to spring a surprise. Football fans await this classic clash between two giants of world football.