FIFA World Cup 2026: Thomas Tuchel Jokes On England’s Plan To Tackle Lionel Messi: England manager Thomas Tuchel produced a light-hearted response when asked how his side plans to stop Lionel Messi ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final against Argentina. Speaking during his pre-match press conference on Wednesday (July 15), Tuchel joked that England’s best chance would be for the Argentine superstar to “catch a cold tomorrow,” before quickly stressing that his team wants to beat the reigning world champions at full strength.
Thomas Tuchel jokingly says England’s best chance of stopping Lionel Messi is for him “to catch a cold tomorrow” ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final against Argentina.
England will face defending champions Argentina in one of the biggest matches of the tournament, with a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final at stake. Messi has once again played a pivotal role in Argentina’s run to the last four, making him England’s biggest threat heading into the contest.
🚨🎙️ Thomas Tuchel on what he’d take away from Argentina before tomorrow’s clash:
“Maybe that Messi catches a cold tomorrow.” 😂🐐 pic.twitter.com/zrjf89zMW7
— MC (@CrewsMat10) July 15, 2026
What Did Thomas Tuchel Say About Lionel Messi?
When asked how England intended to contain the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, Tuchel replied with a smile: “Maybe he has to catch a cold tomorrow.” He immediately clarified that England want to face Argentina at their very best and earn victory on merit rather than benefiting from any absences.
The German coach praised Messi’s influence on the Argentine side and acknowledged that containing him will require a collective defensive effort rather than relying on one player. Tuchel added that England have prepared thoroughly but know the challenge of facing one of football’s greatest-ever players.
England Ready For Biggest Test Of FIFA World Cup 2026
England booked their place in the semi-finals after overcoming Norway, while Argentina defeated Switzerland to continue their title defence. The winner of the blockbuster clash will advance to the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, where either Spain or France awaits.
Tuchel insisted England are not intimidated by Argentina’s pedigree and believes his players are capable of rising to the occasion. The Three Lions are chasing their first FIFA World Cup title since 1966, while Argentina are aiming to reach back-to-back World Cup finals after lifting the trophy in Qatar four years earlier.
