Former England internationals have expressed confidence in the Three Lions’ chances ahead of their highly anticipated FIFA World Cup semi-final meeting with Argentina, with several ex-players insisting Thomas Tuchel side have enough quality to reach the final.
The two football giants are set to face each other in a high-stakes encounter, with Argentina expected to rely heavily on captain Lionel Messi as they continue their pursuit of another World Cup trophy.
However, former England stars believe their national team should not fear the South American champions.
Former Arsenal and England forward Ian Wright said he does not feel the same level of concern about Argentina as he would against teams such as France or Spain.
“I don’t fear Argentina like I fear France or Spain because I think there are a lot of misconceptions about them,” Wright said, suggesting that England have the ability to compete and overcome Argentina’s threat.
Former England captain John Terry also backed the Three Lions, claiming that England’s squad is stronger when compared player-for-player.
“If I’m being honest, Argentina don’t worry me. I don’t look at them and think they’re better than us. Player for player, I believe we’re the stronger team,” Terry said.
Another former England defender, Gary Neville, believes England’s attacking quality can expose weaknesses in Argentina’s defence.
“With the centre-backs they have, I can’t see us failing to score at least two goals,” Neville said, highlighting his belief that England can create enough chances to break through Argentina’s back line.
Former Chelsea and England midfielder Joe Cole went even further, predicting that England will reach the final and successfully deal with Messi’s threat.
“We’re going to put Messi to sleep. I’m saying it now, we’re going to reach the World Cup final,” Cole stated.
Despite their confidence, the former players acknowledged the danger posed by Messi, who remains one of the greatest players in football history. They warned that the Argentina captain can change a match in a single moment.
“I know what he’s capable of doing out of thin air. They must not write him off, but I believe England will go through, even if it’s down to a penalty shootout,” one former England player added.
Argentina, who won the 2022 World Cup, will enter the semi-final with experience and confidence, while England will hope their talented squad can finally end their long wait for another major international trophy.
The winner will advance to the World Cup final to play Spain.
