Former England midfielder and current pundit Joe Cole has gone all-in on the Three Lions, claiming they will “put Messi to sleep” and reach the 2026 World Cup final.
The Quote
“Messi’s first time playing against England? Well, we’re going to put him to sleep. We’re going to put him to sleep. Yeah, 100%. I’m saying it right now, we’re going to reach the World Cup final. We have too much pace for Argentina’s strengths, and we’re going to beat them. I can feel it in my bones.”
Match Context
This comes just two days before the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final between England and Argentina on July 15 in Atlanta.
Argentina (defending champions) booked their spot with a dramatic 3-1 extra-time win over Switzerland. England have looked strong throughout the tournament.
Why Joe Cole Is So Confident
Cole believes England’s pace (think players like Saka, Palmer, Foden, and others) will exploit Argentina’s defensive vulnerabilities. He says the team will dominate possession and make Messi work hard defensively — something the 39-year-old doesn’t usually have to do.
The Counter View
Not everyone is as bullish. Fellow pundit Micah Richards agrees England have the legs to outrun Argentina but warned:
“You can’t take Messi lightly… one mistake and he punishes you.”
Ally McCoist also thinks England are the better side on paper but acknowledged Messi’s ability to produce magic “out of nowhere.”
Quick Take
Joe Cole’s prediction is classic pundit bravado — loud, emotional, and very English. England do have serious pace and a well-balanced squad. But Argentina are serial winners with Messi still capable of moments that defy logic, even at this stage of his career.
The clash on Wednesday should be an absolute classic. Will Cole’s “bones” feeling prove prophetic, or will the GOAT have the last laugh?
