John Obi Mikel has dismissed conspiracy theories that FIFA have favoured Argentina during the 2026 World Cup, blaming Cristiano Ronaldo's online fans for fabricating the narrative. The former Chelsea midfielder insists suggestions of bias towards Lionel Messi's side are unfounded.
England Face Argentina in Semi-Final
England take on Argentina in Miami on Wednesday in a blockbuster World Cup semi-final, aiming to reach Sunday's final against Spain, who defeated tournament favourites France. Some fans believe England may face a perceived bias towards Argentina, citing controversial decisions such as Egypt's disallowed goal in the round of 16 and Breel Embolo's red card in the quarter-final against Switzerland.
However, Mikel shot down those claims on The Rest Is Football podcast. He said: "You're talking about this thing - FIFA favouring Argentina... No, I'm not buying into that bull****, this is all the Ronaldo fans coming up with all of this crap."
Ronaldo's Impact on Portugal
Mikel added: "If they [Portugal] won their games, which they should have done, they wouldn't have played tougher teams. Argentina did their job, they won their games, and they got into the easier group. So this is all Ronaldo fans. I don't like that. FIFA are not favouring Messi. Messi is doing his job, he's playing, he's scoring goals and he's breaking records."
The 41-year-old Ronaldo endured a disappointing tournament as Portugal were eliminated in the round of 16 by Spain, scoring three goals in five matches. In contrast, Messi has netted eight goals in six games, level with Kylian Mbappe at the top of the scoring charts.
England's Approach
Former Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole urged England to take the game to Argentina. "They need fire in their belly, and they need to know that they're coming to upset the party," he said. "And I would almost go on the front foot with it, and get in the face of Argentinian players early doors."
Mikel believes Argentina will go on to win the tournament if they beat England, potentially securing back-to-back World Cup titles.
