Lionel Messi delivered another decisive performance on the biggest stage, creating two assists as Argentina came from behind to defeat England 2-1 and secure a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
In a tightly contested semi-final at the Atlanta stadium, England appeared on course for a historic win after Anthony Gordon opened the scoring in the second half. However, the defending champions showed their trademark resilience, scoring twice late in the game to complete a dramatic comeback.
The first half was a battle of midfield discipline, with both teams struggling to create clear chances. The intensity was reflected in the number of fouls, as the two sides combined for 19 before the break. Neither team managed a shot on target, making it the first World Cup match since 1966 to go without an attempt on target in the opening 30 minutes.
England finally found the breakthrough 10 minutes after the restart. Harry Kane sparked a quick counterattack with a brilliant forward pass, allowing Morgan Rogers to deliver a precise cross into the box. Anthony Gordon finished calmly to score his first World Cup goal and put the Three Lions ahead.
Argentina responded immediately, increasing the pressure as they searched for an equaliser. Alexis Mac Allister came close with a diving header that struck the post, while England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford made a superb save to keep out Nico Gonzalez and preserve his team’s lead.
But Argentina’s persistence paid off in the 85th minute. After Pickford blocked an earlier effort and sent the ball behind for a corner, Messi found Enzo Fernandez on the edge of the penalty area. The Chelsea midfielder produced a stunning left-footed finish that curled past the goalkeeper to bring the scores level.
With extra time approaching, Argentina completed the turnaround in dramatic fashion. Mac Allister’s header hit the post, but Messi reacted quickly to collect the rebound before delivering a dangerous cross into the six-yard box. Lautaro Martinez rose above the defence to head home the winner and send Argentina into another World Cup final.
The victory extended Argentina’s reputation for late drama at the tournament, with the reigning champions once again finding a way to deliver when the pressure was highest.
England’s disciplined defensive performance kept them competitive for much of the match, but they were eventually undone by Messi’s brilliance and Argentina’s relentless attacking threat.
Argentina will now meet Spain in Sunday’s final as they aim to win a fourth World Cup title. England, meanwhile, will have to wait longer for their first World Cup triumph since 1966.
