World Cup: FIFA wants Lionel Messi to reach final – Ex-England star, Joe Cole
Atlanta — Former England midfielder Joe Cole suggested that FIFA is inclined to see Argentine captain Lionel Messi reach the final of the 2026 World Cup.
Cole made his remarks ahead of the semi-final match between England and Argentina, scheduled for tonight in Atlanta. This matchup marks the first confrontation between the two teams in 28 years, following England’s penalty shootout defeat to Argentina in the Round of 16 during the 1998 World Cup in France. Since their sole championship win in 1966, England has not advanced to the final in six decades.
Under head coach Thomas Tuchel, England advanced to the semi-finals by defeating Norway 2-1 in extra time. Meanwhile, Messi and his team secured their spot by overcoming Switzerland 3-1, despite the Swiss team being reduced to ten players.
In anticipation of this pivotal match, Cole commented, “FIFA wants Messi to reach the final. I believe it is a subconscious desire. To maximize the potential of my group, it is clear that the entire world wishes to see Lionel Messi in the final.” He noted that England must navigate the competitive spirit often associated with Argentine players.
He recalled past encounters, saying, “In ’98 with Simeone, when Beckham made contact with his calf… he is meant to portray toughness, yet he ended up rolling around, resulting in Beckham’s dismissal. They must navigate all of that and still perform.”
Cole also emphasized the importance of focusing on England’s players, particularly Jude Bellingham, who may face challenges from Argentina’s Rodrigo De Paul. “I am not suggesting any wrongdoing from FIFA. The global sentiment seems to favor Argentina, as they wish for Messi to succeed,” he added.
Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina enters the match on a remarkable 11-game winning streak. The outcome may determine if they will face off against Spain, the 2010 champions, in the title match on July 19 in New Jersey.
