Former England midfielder Joe Cole says England can stop Lionel Messi and defeat Argentina in their FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal. Multiple outlets report that Cole frames the match as a test of England’s ability to handle Argentina’s attack while keeping Messi under control. The articles describe Argentina as the reigning World Champions, pointing to their World Cup win in Qatar four years ago, which is described as their third title and their first in about 36 years. Cole’s comments emphasize an England-versus-Argentina match-up ahead of the semifinal, with the expectation that England’s attacking approach will challenge Argentina. While the reports do not provide detailed tactical plans, they consistently cite Cole’s prediction that England will “put Messi to bed,” a phrase used as a warning to Argentina and as a basis for his belief that England can reach the final. The semifinal is reported to be scheduled at Atlanta Stadium on Wednesday.