Messi Inspires Dramatic Argentina Comeback to Reach World Cup Final

Messi Inspires Dramatic Argentina Comeback to Reach World Cup Final

Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez Strike Late as Defending Champions Beat England 2-1

Argentina produced a stunning late comeback to defeat England 2-1 and book their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, keeping alive their dream of retaining the trophy.

Trailing with just five minutes of normal time remaining at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Lionel Scaloni's side looked destined for elimination. However, inspired by Lionel Messi, the defending champions scored twice in seven minutes to turn the match on its head and set up a blockbuster final against Spain.

The highly anticipated semi-final began with both teams showing intensity and aggression, but clear chances were few and far between during a tense first half. Argentina enjoyed spells of possession while England remained organised and dangerous on the counterattack.

The deadlock was finally broken in the 55th minute when Morgan Rogers delivered an excellent cross from the right flank. Anthony Gordon timed his run perfectly and guided his finish beyond Emiliano Martinez to give England a crucial lead.

With England ahead, Thomas Tuchel's side dropped deeper and attempted to protect their advantage. Argentina responded by increasing the pressure and came close on several occasions. Jordan Pickford produced a brilliant save to deny Nico Gonzalez, while Alexis Mac Allister struck the post with a powerful header.

As the clock ticked down, Argentina found the breakthrough they desperately needed. In the 85th minute, a short-corner routine worked perfectly as Messi laid the ball into the path of Enzo Fernandez. The midfielder unleashed a spectacular curling strike from distance that flew into the far corner to level the score.

The equaliser transformed the momentum of the contest, and Argentina continued to push forward in search of a winner.

Their decisive moment arrived in stoppage time. Messi found space on the flank and delivered a perfectly weighted cross into the penalty area. Lautaro Martinez rose above the England defence and powered a header past Pickford in the 92nd minute, sparking wild celebrations among the Argentine players and supporters.

England attempted one final response, but Argentina held firm to secure a memorable victory and advance to another World Cup final.

Match Result

Argentina 2-1 England

Goals

Anthony Gordon (England) – 55'

Enzo Fernandez (Argentina) – 85'

Lautaro Martinez (Argentina) – 90+2'

Key Moment

Lionel Messi's brilliant cross in stoppage time allowed Lautaro Martinez to score the winning goal and complete Argentina's dramatic comeback.

Argentina will now face Spain in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, while England's wait for a first World Cup title since 1966 continues after another heartbreaking semi-final defeat.