Argentina produced a stunning late comeback to beat England 2-1 on Wednesday night, booking their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final against Spain in a dramatic semi-final in Atlanta.
England looked set to reach their first World Cup final since 1966 after Anthony Gordon fired Thomas Tuchel’s side ahead in the 55th minute. The Three Lions then adopted a more defensive approach, inviting sustained pressure from the defending champions.
Argentina’s persistence finally paid off in the 85th minute when Enzo Fernández rifled home the equaliser. With extra time looming, Lionel Messi produced another moment of brilliance, setting up substitute Lautaro Martínez, who slotted home the winner deep into stoppage time to complete a remarkable turnaround.
Messi, playing in what is expected to be his final World Cup, was once again the driving force behind Argentina’s victory. While he did not score, he provided the decisive assist for Martínez’s winner and orchestrated Argentina’s late surge with his creativity and leadership.
The victory keeps Argentina’s hopes of retaining the World Cup alive. Lionel Scaloni’s side will now face European champions Spain in Sunday’s final, while England must regroup for the third-place playoff against France.
