’I was wrong, but I had no idea about the lineup’: Arturo Vidal apologizes to Messi after failed prediction

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Arturo Vidal has issued a public apology to Lionel Messi after his bold prediction that Argentina would lose to England spectacularly backfired in Wednesday’s World Cup semi-final.

The former Barcelona and Bayern Munich midfielder had confidently tipped England to eliminate the world champions — a forecast that looked prescient for 55 minutes before Argentina completed a stunning 2-1 comeback. Now, Vidal has admitted he got it wrong, but insists he would have made a different call had he known Lionel Scaloni’s lineup beforehand.

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‘I am very happy for Leo and for Argentina’

In a social media video posted in the aftermath of Argentina’s dramatic victory, the 38-year-old Chilean international struck a humble tone.

“Honestly, I am very happy for Leo and for Argentina,” Vidal said. “My prediction was wrong, I admit it. But listen — had I known the lineup the coach was going to field beforehand? I would have picked Argentina to win from the start. Regardless, I was mistaken. They earned it.”

Vidal’s remarks suggest he had anticipated a more conservative approach from Scaloni. In reality, the Argentine manager surprised many by naming an aggressive starting XI that included four forwards, with Lautaro Martínez, Ángel Di María, Julián Álvarez and Lionel Messi all starting. The decision to field Nicolás Tagliafico at left-back and Enzo Fernández in a more advanced midfield role also caught England off guard.

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‘When Leo is at his best, anything can happen’

Turning his attention to Sunday’s final against Spain, Vidal predicted a fierce contest — but admitted he is hesitant to make another call.

“The final is going to be a fiery encounter, a real battle,” he said. “I just hope my next prediction comes true — though, look, it’s going to be very difficult. Because when Leo is at his best? Anything can happen, man. Anything.”

It is a significant concession from Vidal, who has never been shy about voicing his opinions. The Chilean has long been regarded as one of South American football’s most combative characters, and has often found himself on the opposite side of Argentina’s bitter rivalries. His admission that Messi’s brilliance makes prediction impossible speaks volumes about the respect the 39-year-old commands — even from his fiercest competitors.

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A history of bold predictions

Vidal’s pre-match comments had been unequivocal. Speaking earlier in the week, he had argued that England’s physicality and defensive organisation would be too much for Argentina, and that Thomas Tuchel’s side — fresh from eliminating France in the quarter-finals — had the tactical discipline to neutralise Messi.

“England have the weapons to hurt them. They have pace, they have power, and they have a manager who knows how to win knockout games. Argentina have struggled against teams that sit deep and hit on the break,” Vidal had said before the match.

He also pointed to Argentina’s age profile, suggesting that the likes of Messi, Di María and Nicolás Otamendi might struggle with the intensity of a semi-final against younger, more athletic opponents. “The legs go eventually, even for the greatest,” he had added.

That analysis crumbled in spectacular fashion. Messi produced one of his finest World Cup displays, completing nine dribbles, creating four chances, and delivering the match-winning cross from open play — on his right foot — to set up Lautaro Martínez’s 92nd-minute winner.

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‘Congratulations to the Argentine people’

Vidal ended his mea culpa with a gracious message to Argentina’s supporters.

“But anyway, best regards to everyone, and congratulations to the Argentine people. They deserve to celebrate.”

It was a far cry from the tone of some of his compatriots. Chile and Argentina have a fraught footballing relationship, and many Chilean fans had taken particular delight in mocking Argentina during the match — a sentiment that has now been replaced by grudging admiration.

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What’s next for Vidal?

Vidal, who currently plays for Chilean club Colo-Colo, has not yet announced his international retirement. He remains Chile’s all-time leading appearance maker, with over 140 caps, and has spoken of his desire to feature in qualifying for the 2028 Copa América.

For now, however, he is watching from afar — and learning that even the most confident predictions can be undone by a man who simply refuses to be beaten.