The stage is set in Atlanta for the 2026 World Cup semi‑final where England will meet Argentina for the first time in a World Cup match. It will also be Lionel Messi’s inaugural encounter with England, 24 years after the two sides last clashed on the global stage in 2002.

Joe Cole’s bold forecast

On the "The Rest is Football" podcast, former England winger Joe Cole declared, "We’re going to put Messi to bed." He argued that England’s blistering pace and forward thrust would dismantle Argentina’s defensive structure, despite the South Americans’ dramatic knockout‑stage comebacks over Egypt and Switzerland.

Historical rivalry

The England‑Argentina rivalry dates back to the 1986 World Cup quarter‑final, infamous for Diego Maradona’s "Hand of God". Over the decades the fixture has produced political tension, on‑field scuffles and memorable moments. This semi‑final adds another chapter, pitting the Argentine maestro against a rejuvenated Three Lions side.

Form and key players

England reached the semi‑final by beating Norway 2‑0, with Jude Bellingham netting a brace – their first semi‑final appearance since 2018. Argentina, meanwhile, edged past Switzerland 3‑1 after a dramatic extra‑time winner from Julián Álvarez. Messi, who assisted the opening goal, has yet to score in this tournament, ending a nine‑match streak of finding the net across two World Cups.

Implications

If Cole’s prediction holds, England could not only silence the Argentine talisman but also secure a spot in the final, reshaping the European power balance at the tournament. For Messi, the match is a personal milestone – a chance to prove his longevity on football’s biggest stage.