Joe Cole warns Lionel Messi about clash with England in the 2026 World Cup semi-final

Expectations for the confrontation between England and Argentina in the 2026 World Cup grow, andrecently, former English player Joe Cole issued a direct warning to star Lionel Messi, promising a physical and decisive clash. The statement, which generated repercussions, further intensifies the historic rivalry between the two teams.

In his words, Cole was emphatic in predicting the result, guaranteeing that the English team “will knock out” the Argentine number 10.

The duel between England and Argentina is already among the most anticipated for the tournament, driven by the intense rivalry that historically marks the meetings of the two nations in football. The British icon’s speech served to warm up spirits even more.

During his analysis of the 2026 World Cup semi-final, where England and Argentina could face each other, Joe Cole expressed great confidence in the superiority of the English. He stated, in a resounding manner, that his team will reach the final of the competition and overcome the challenge posed by Lionel Messi.

“When Messi plays for the first time against England? Well, we will have to knock him out. We will knock him out, yes, 100%. I’m saying now: we will reach the World Cup final”, declared Joe Cole, who defended the English team, in an interview with the website “The Rest Is Football”. He complemented his speech by saying that “we have a lot of speed to overcome Argentina’s strengths and we will beat them. I feel that firsthand.”

Argentina’s attitude towards provocations before the World Cup semi-final

Unlike Joe Cole’s combative tone, the Argentine team, current world champion, avoided fueling controversy after the provocations, especially those directed at Lionel Messi. The players, including the number 10 himself, highlighted that the confrontation is seen as a match of great importance, both due to its historical and footballing weight.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni also adopted a more cautious stance, refusing to participate in more heated debates on the topic. In a press conference, held at Kansas City Stadium, after the 3-1 victory over Switzerland, Scaloni shared his vision on the possible meeting with England.

“It’s a football match. The message is that it’s a football match. We’re not going to look for anything beyond that,” said the coach. He added: “We’re going to play a football match against a great team, with a great coach who I really appreciate and admire. And it’s a football match. Period. There’s nothing more to add.”

• Joe Cole has issued a stern warning to Lionel Messi over the World Cup semi-finals.
• England and Argentina could face each other in search of a place in the 2026 World Cup final.
• Lionel Scaloni, Argentine coach, avoided controversy after the 3-1 victory over Switzerland.