The England vs Argentina scenario that will leave Lionel Messi quivering at sight of Jordan Pickford
England's World Cup semi-final against Argentina poses a big challenge for Jordan Pickford.
The Everton goalkeeper has been sensational over the course of his career for the Three Lions, and that hasn't stopped in North America this summer.
Despite a shaky start in England's opener against Croatia, the shot-stopper has bounced back with impressive performances.
Pickford was particularly impressive in the 3-2 win over Mexico at the feared Estadio Azteca, where he pulled off some big stops to help Thomas Tuchel's side through to the quarter-final.
After starting in England's win over Norway, the 32-year-old now has the chance to lead his nation back to a World Cup final for the first time since 1966 with victory over Argentina on Wednesday.
Pickford will only have the great Lionel Messi to stop, though there is a glimmer of hope for the Everton man and every England fan.
The scenario that Jordan Pickford will fancy his chances vs Lionel Messi
The Toffees enjoyed another stellar season from their number-one goalie, who has taken his form into the World Cup for Tuchel and England.
Goodison News has previously reported that Pickford is likely to retire with Everton, with David Moyes a huge fan of the England international.
Every England fan will be hoping for the Everton fan favourite to be on his A-game against Argentina ahead of a possible finale against Spain in New York.
There may be a good chance of that, especially if the game goes to penalties.
That's because, as highlighted by Everton before the tournament, Pickford has made more penalty shootout saves at major competitions than any other England goalkeeper in history.
It becomes even more exciting given the fact that Messi has missed both of his penalties at the World Cup so far.
The "GOAT", as so many call the 39-year-old, missed from the spot against Austria and Egypt, which bodes well for England and their chances if the game takes them to a shootout.
Why England may struggle to finish the game before penalties
Argentina and England have been two of the standout teams at the World Cup, though the former have been involved in some controversies.
However, Messi's side has particular knowledge about how to navigate a game during late stages or in extra time.
They won two of their three knockout games in extra time, as they also staged a dramatic comeback to beat Cape Verde in stoppage-time of normal time.
England did beat Norway in extra time, but Argentina have some sense of inevitability about them.
Either way, crazy things are bound to happen in this one, let's just hope it goes in favour of the Three Lions.