The Argentine press has risen in defense of Lionel Messi and their national team ahead of the match against England next Wednesday evening in the 2026 World Cup semifinal.

Former England star Joe Cole decided to ignite tension between the two teams before the anticipated clash, saying: 'Is this the first time Messi faces England? Well, we'll finish it for him. Yes, 100%.'

He added: 'I say it now: England will qualify for the final. We have speed that far surpasses Argentina's strengths, and we will defeat them.'

This statement sparked widespread reactions from the entire Argentine press and ignited great enthusiasm just two days before the match, according to what was reported by the network 'Foot Mercato'.

In fact, Argentine media widely circulated this statement, with several sites highlighting its 'provocative' nature.

Website 'MDZ Online' believes that Joe Cole 'stirred controversy before the match' and indeed sees that this statement will push Lionel Messi, the tournament's top scorer, to respond on the pitch.

Many media outlets circulated this statement, considering it an additional motivation for the world champions.

For its part, newspaper Clarín said: 'Depending on the result of the semifinal, this statement could become one of the most memorable or most ridiculed statements of the tournament.'

As for TyC Sports, it mocked Cole's harsh statements towards Leo, saying: 'It is surprising, especially after he praised him repeatedly in public, and even ranked him much higher than Cristiano Ronaldo.'

The channel also mocked other comments coming from England, particularly those regarding the quality of the central defensive duo Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martínez.

On social media, many Argentine fans are thanking British commentators for directing sharp criticism at coach Lionel Scaloni's dressing room.

Meanwhile, news agency TN added a new chapter to the rivalry between Argentina and England, and as is often the case in such matches, it will be decided on the pitch.

It continued: 'There, Messi will try to prove once again why he remains the player everyone seeks to stop, and who is almost impossible to silence. A few days before facing Atalanta, perhaps Joe Cole has given Lionel Messi and his teammates extra motivation to enter this semifinal with greater enthusiasm.'