Joe Cole England Argentina prediction sees the former midfielder backing the Three Lions to defeat Lionel Messi’s side in the 2026 World Cup semi-final

Former England international Joe Cole has predicted that the Three Lions will defeat Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final, insisting that Gareth Southgate’s side have the pace and quality to overcome Lionel Messi and the reigning champions.

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Cole shared his confident assessment on The Rest Is Football podcast after England secured a narrow 2-1 victory over Norway in the quarter-finals, while Argentina needed extra time to defeat 10-man Switzerland.

The potential semi-final showdown between England and Argentina has generated huge excitement, with Messi set to face England for the first time in his senior international career if both teams complete their respective knockout challenges.

The former Chelsea playmaker believes England’s attacking speed will cause problems for Argentina and backed his country to reach the World Cup final.

“Messi facing England for the first time? We are going to put him to sleep,” Cole said.

“We are going to put him to sleep, 100%.”

The prediction continued with the former midfielder expressing strong belief in England’s chances.

“I am saying it right now, England will reach the World Cup Final,” he added.

“We have too much pace for Argentina’s strengths, we are going to beat them, I can feel it in my bones.”

Cole’s comments reflect the growing confidence around England’s squad, which has progressed through the tournament with a mixture of attacking talent and defensive organisation.

Argentina, meanwhile, remain one of the competition’s strongest teams, led by the experience of Messi and a squad that has consistently competed at the highest level in recent years. Their dramatic extra-time win over Switzerland demonstrated their ability to handle pressure during difficult knockout matches.

A meeting between England and Argentina would revive one of international football’s most historic rivalries, with memories of past World Cup encounters continuing to fuel anticipation among supporters.

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While Cole’s prediction has added excitement to the build-up, the outcome will ultimately be decided on the pitch as two footballing nations compete for a place in the biggest match of the tournament.