Setting the Record

The instant the first half ended, livestream chats and social media forums across the internet exploded, with public opinion splitting completely in two.

What had been hyped for days in advance and climbed to the top of global trends as the match of the century had delivered the most unexpected first-half script.

Countless fans who had stayed up late waiting and watching the livestream flooded the comments with heated discussion.

"Seriously didn't expect this! I thought it'd be a clash of gods, but it turned into an extreme battle for a draw!"

"So steady! Both teams' head coaches are way too cautious—they don't dare give away even the slightest chance!"

"It's understandable. This is a World Cup semifinal. Lose and you go straight home. Who would dare attack recklessly?"

"Li Yufei and Messi are both holding back, both building up strength. They're clearly saving themselves for the decisive moments of the second half!"

"Even though the match has been dull, the tactical battle is maxed out. Every pass and every marking battle is packed with details!"

"Zero shots on target in the first half is insane. The two greatest players in football actually marked each other out of the game!"

"This is what a top-tier tournament is all about. Without absolute certainty, no one makes a rash move!"

At the same time, plenty of fans marveled at how effectively the two superstars had restrained one another.

"With Li Yufei there, Messi doesn't dare charge forward and counterattack freely. He's wary of the midfield interceptions."

"With Messi's threat hanging over them, England doesn't dare push forward in force either. They're afraid of having their defense sliced open in an instant."

"The two of them are checking each other, directly locking down the attacking rhythm of the entire match!"

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