2026 World Cup: Argentina vs. England, Joe Cole provokes Messi, the Argentine press retaliates

Tensions are rising ahead of the highly anticipated 2026 World Cup semi-final between Argentina and England. Former England international Joe Cole has ignited the debate by verbally attacking Lionel Messi. His statement quickly crossed the Atlantic and sparked a strong reaction from the Argentinian media, determined to turn this provocation into a source of motivation for the Albiceleste.

Ahead of this historic clash, Joe Cole made no secret of his confidence in the Three Lions. Convinced of his team's superiority, the former attacking midfielder believed that England had the necessary tools to neutralize Lionel Messi and secure a place in the final.

"Is this the first time Messi will face England? We'll put him to bed. I'm convinced England will reach the final. We have far too much speed for this Argentina team," he declared, comments that immediately spread throughout the South American media.

Argentine media denounce a provocation

In Argentina, reactions were swift. Several newspapers and specialized websites described this statement as a blatant provocation just days before the match.

MDZ Online believes Joe Cole deliberately stirred things up before the match and thinks his comments could boost Lionel Messi's resolve, given his current status as one of the tournament's top scorers. Many Argentine observers see these remarks as providing an extra incentive for the world champions.

For his part, Clarín points out that this statement could go down in World Cup history, either as a stroke of genius if England wins, or as one of the most embarrassing predictions of the competition in the event of an Argentinian success.

Joe Cole reminded of his previous statements

Argentine media outlets were quick to point out a certain contradiction in the former Chelsea player's statements. TyC Sports, in particular, reminds us that Joe Cole had consistently heaped praise on Lionel Messi over the years, even going so far as to place him well ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo in the debate about the greatest player of all time.

The local press also found amusement in the criticism leveled in England against the Argentine defense, particularly against Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martínez, believing that these comments could ultimately backfire on their authors.

On social media, many Argentinian fans are even thanking the British consultants for providing Lionel Scaloni with an ideal motivational speech before this semi-final.

A historic rivalry reignited

According to the media outlet TN, this new media skirmish only adds another chapter to the intense rivalry between Argentina and England, fueled for several decades by memorable confrontations.

As is often the case in these kinds of matches, the real answer will come on the pitch. Lionel Messi will once again try to prove that he remains the player capable of turning the tide in the biggest games, while England will finally seek to shatter Argentina's dream and reach the World Cup final again. One thing is certain: even before kickoff in Atlanta, the psychological battle is already in full swing.