La Albiceleste will face England on Wednesday at 4:00 PM in Atlanta for the 2026 World Cup semifinal. The clash promises to be historic both for the stage and the fierce rivalry. Argentina’s last result was a 2-0 win over Angola on November 14, 2025, with the team on a three-game winning streak.

What the English ex-players are saying

Tensions are running high ahead of the match, fueled by bold comments from English ex-footballers. John Terry, England’s former captain, claimed: “England is better than Argentina player for player… except Messi. But this time we’ll beat them anyway.” Paul Merson went further: “I wouldn’t even let a kid wearing an Argentina shirt into my house. Some things you don’t forget.”

Ian Wright targeted Argentina’s weaknesses: “I don’t fear Argentina like I fear France or Spain. They’ve got plenty of flaws.” Troy Deeney, recently retired, was blunt: “I think we’ll thrash them — win 2-0 comfortably.” Gary Neville, Manchester United legend, didn’t hold back: “I don’t see how we don’t score at least two goals,” and slammed Argentina’s center-back duo: “I call them the best-worst pair of center-backs in the world. They gift goals every match, then suddenly look world-class again.”

Gorosito’s fiery response and the current squad’s respectful tone

In response to the jabs, San Lorenzo manager Pipo Gorosito fired back with sarcasm: “Tell this Gary Neville he only knew how to play as a full-back… he was a log. Couldn’t even use his feet.” Gorosito defended Argentina’s defenders: “They’re absolute cracks, just incredible.”

England’s current players, however, kept their cool. Harry Kane, the striker, said: “It’ll be a very special, tough match, but we’re ready.” Jordan Pickford, the goalkeeper, framed the challenge: “It’s a great story to play against Messi. We know how good he is, but we focus on the whole team.” Tuchel’s side arrives with momentum after beating the Netherlands 3-1 in the quarterfinals, where Lautaro Martínez scored twice.

The buzz ahead of kickoff

The 2 de Abril War Veterans Federation issued a statement backing Argentina, recalling the historical weight of the rivalry. The atmosphere in Atlanta is set to be electric, with Argentine and English fans already in the city. Local players like Enzo Fernández brushed off the ex-players’ comments: “Those words belong in the past. We’re focused on our game.”

The match kicks off at a 71,000-capacity stadium under typical July heat in the U.S. Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, aims for its third World Cup final under Scaloni. Their last meeting in a World Cup was in 1998 — a 2-2 draw that Argentina won on penalties (4-3).