Argentina's media has fired back at English pundits who downplayed the defending champions ahead of the World Cup semi-final, with the front page of prominent publication Ole carrying the message: 'England is downplaying us - respect the pecking order.' The fixture on Wednesday marks the first clash between England and Argentina since a friendly in 2005, but the rivalry remains one of international football's fiercest, fueled by decades of memorable moments including David Beckham's red card, Michael Owen's wondergoal, and Diego Maradona's infamous 'Hand of God' goal.
English Pundits Spark Controversy
The build-up to the match became heated after several prominent English pundits expressed confidence about facing Argentina. Ex-Arsenal striker Ian Wright told the Stick to Football podcast: 'If we get to a France or a Spain, I think the level goes to another place entirely. It's got to be difficult - it's the final, isn't it? But I don't fear Argentina like I'd fear France or Spain, because I think there are a lot of fallacies with them.'
Former Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole, who earned 56 caps for England, was equally confident, insisting the Three Lions have the tools to neutralise Lionel Messi - the joint-top scorer at this World Cup with eight goals. 'Is this the first time Messi will play England? Well, we're going to have to put him to sleep,' Cole said. 'We're going to put him to sleep. I'm saying it now, we're going to reach the World Cup final. We've got plenty of speed for Argentina and we're going to beat them. I can feel it in my bones.'
Neville Comments on Argentina's Defence
Gary Neville also had his say, suggesting Argentina's preferred centre-back pairing of Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez could be undone by England's in-form frontline. 'They seem to give a goal away between them every single game, and the full-backs aren't great either,' Neville said. 'But then you watch them and they're scoring goals, heading the ball and something for them every time they put that shirt on. I call them the best, worst centre-half pairing in the world, because at times they can be unbelievable.'
Argentine Media Responds
The bold declarations have clearly rattled Buenos Aires. Ole accused England of disrespecting the three-time world champions, adding: 'There is a sense of triumphalism among the English press and former players, who downplay the Argentinian powerhouse, all while their star [Jude] Bellingham and manager Tuchel are feuding in public.'
Argentina sealed their place in the last four with a 3-1 extra-time triumph over Switzerland, while England also required the full 120 minutes to advance, with Bellingham's brace delivering a 2-1 comeback victory over Norway. The winner on Wednesday will book a place in Sunday's final.
