Wright's assessment reflects a broader view that Argentina, despite being the reigning world champions — having lifted the trophy in Qatar four years ago — have shown defensive vulnerabilities throughout the tournament.

Messi carrying Argentina almost alone

Argentina had to rely heavily on Messi's individual brilliance just to progress through the Round of 32 and Round of 16, overcoming Cape Verde and Egypt respectively in matches where their defensive frailties were exposed.

Messi, now 39 years old, has been nothing short of extraordinary at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He has scored 8 goals to share the tournament's scoring lead and delivered a hat-trick in the group stage that drew him level with the all-time World Cup scoring record of 16 goals.

England will need to find a way to stop the one player capable of deciding the match on his own — and Wright believes Guéhi and Stones are the men for the job.