The psychological battle leading up to the World Cup 2026 semi-final between England and Argentina has already begun with former England players’ bold statements to Lionel Messi and the defending champions.
Joe Cole has made waves by declaring that England will “destroy” Messi when the two football giants meet in the World Cup final. He has added more inkling to one of the most bitter rivalries in football in which fans are flushing ahead of the epic game with anticipation for the huge match-up.
Cole’s confidence in England’s chances came through on The Rest Is Football podcast and said that Thomas Tuchel’s side had the speed and quality to overcome Argentina.
"We are going to destroy him," Cole said of Messi. "I'm telling you now, England will reach the World Cup final. We have too much pace for Argentina. They won’t be able to cope. They’ll struggle to keep up."
Cole’s comments drew a quick response from former England international Micah Richards that was not the case. Richards said to Cole he shouldn’t speak like that about one of football’s greatest players. Cole replied, “You could say it a hundred times.”
Cole focused on England's attacking strengths, however, Wayne Rooney, another England legend, offered a more tactical assessment of the semi-final.
Rooney thinks Messi’s lack of presence on defense might be a weakness for Argentina in such a high-stakes knockout match. As a former Manchester United striker, he says modern football requires every player to contribute defensively and we know Messi does less.
Rooney argued England’s own stars, like Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane, regularly track back and help their teammates without the ball. He also warned Argentina would be vulnerable if Messi stays high up the pitch in defensive phases.
Rooney was also quick to remind England that underestimating Messi would be a costly mistake.
He added that the Argentine captain is still one of the most dangerous players in football and can change the outcome of a match with a single moment of brilliance. Rooney compared Messi’s ability to deliver in decisive moments with Bellingham’s performances during this World Cup and said both players have exceptional decision-making under pressure.
The former England captain also said England’s defenders will need to stay focused throughout the game. Clear communication, disciplined marking, and constant awareness will be crucial to avoid Messi finding pockets of space between the defensive lines.
Even though Messi is less defensive minded, Rooney believes his attacking intelligence, movement, and finishing ability make him the player England must monitor more than anyone else.
The semi-final will be one of the biggest games of the tournament as England’s young players will meet Argentina’s experienced champions led by Messi. Off the pitch, the war of words has already begun with some added spice to a match that has decades of football history and competition at play.
Whether Joe Cole’s prediction will be right or Messi will return to the big stage will be decided when the two football powerhouses compete for a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final.
