Joe Cole's Bold Prediction: “We’re Sending Messi on Vacation”

The rivalry between England and Argentina ahead of the 2026 World Cup semifinal is heating up. Former Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole has made a very bold prediction before the match against Messi-led Argentina.

“England will reach the final”

Joe Cole expressed confidence on The Rest Is Football podcast that the England national team will defeat Argentina.

“We’re sending Messi on vacation. 100 percent. England will reach the final,” Cole said.

The former player believes that in their current form, England is a team that is too fast and dangerous for Argentina. He believes the “Three Lions” can defeat the Argentinians precisely due to their tempo and physical intensity.

Will speed be a problem for Argentina?

Cole's main argument is England's speed. He believes Argentina's defense and midfield may struggle to cope with England's high-tempo game.

There is logic in these words: in a semifinal, small details make a big difference. One fast attack, one counter-attack, or one individual run can change the entire script of the game.

But Argentina also has one “game-breaker” — Lionel Messi. Even at 39, he can turn a game upside down with one pass, one turn, or one set-piece. In football, some people play not by their “passport age,” but by their “magic license.”

A historic clash for Messi

The Argentina vs. England semifinal is of special importance for Messi. Throughout his long career on the international stage, he has played against many major national teams, but a clash of this magnitude against England carries a special intrigue.

This match is significant not only for a place in the final but also in terms of historic rivalry, Messi's legacy, and England's ambitions in major tournaments.

Who awaits the winner in the final?

The semifinal between England and Argentina will take place on July 15. The winner of this pair will face either France or Spain in the final.

There are no easy opponents left at this stage. But the emotional background surrounding the England vs. Argentina pair is different: Messi, historic rivalry, Cole's sharp words, and one step away from the final.

Cole's words increased the pressure

Such statements may not directly affect the players. But for fans, the media, and social networks, it is like adding fuel to the fire.

The Argentine side may take such words as motivation. England fans, on the other hand, see Cole's words as a sign of confidence.

In other words, the psychological battle has started even before the semifinal begins.

The answer will be given on the pitch

Joe Cole is 100 percent sure that England will beat Argentina. But in a World Cup semifinal, predictions often become obsolete after the first whistle.

England is fast, physical, and ambitious. Argentina is experienced, cool-headed, and has Messi.

Now the main question is: can England really “send Messi on vacation,” or will the Argentinians prove all predictions wrong once again?