By Lukman OMIKUNLE
Lionel Messi provided two assists as Argentina came from behind to defeat England 2-1 in a thrilling FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final, setting up a blockbuster final against Spain
Messi Inspires Argentina’s Stunning Comeback to Beat England 2-1, Set Up World Cup Final Against Spain
Argentina produced another breathtaking comeback to end England’s dreams of a first FIFA World Cup final in six decades, scoring twice in the closing stages to seal a dramatic 2-1 victory and book a blockbuster showdown with Spain in Sunday’s 2026 World Cup final.
Thomas Tuchel’s side looked destined to end England’s long wait for a World Cup final appearance after Anthony Gordon fired them ahead in the 55th minute following an impressive display. However, Lionel Messi once again proved decisive, providing two assists as Enzo Fernandez and substitute Lautaro Martinez struck late to send the defending champions into their seventh World Cup final.
The eagerly anticipated semi-final in Atlanta lived up to its billing as one of international football’s fiercest rivalries, although clear-cut chances were scarce during a tense first half. England threatened first when John Stones headed Declan Rice’s free-kick wide, while Fernandez fired over at the opposite end as both teams cautiously searched for an opening.
Argentina returned from the break with renewed purpose as Julian Alvarez raced behind England’s defence only to be denied by Jordan Pickford at his near post. Yet it was England who broke the deadlock moments later. Morgan Rogers delivered a dangerous low cross from the right and Gordon timed his run perfectly, beating Nahuel Molina at the far post before guiding a composed finish beyond Emiliano Martinez to put the Three Lions within touching distance of history.
England’s lead, however, sparked an unrelenting Argentine response. Djed Spence produced a crucial last-ditch tackle to deny Giuliano Simeone, while Pickford kept his side ahead with a brilliant save from substitute Nico Gonzalez before Alexis Mac Allister rattled the post as Lionel Scaloni’s men piled on the pressure.
The breakthrough eventually came five minutes from time after Messi orchestrated another attacking move. Following a well-worked short-corner routine, the Argentina captain squared the ball to Fernandez, who unleashed a stunning long-range strike that beat Pickford and levelled the contest.
With extra time looming, Argentina completed another remarkable turnaround in stoppage time. Mac Allister’s effort cannoned off the upright, but Messi reacted quickest to recycle possession before delivering a precise cross to the far post, where Lautaro Martinez rose to head home the winner and spark wild celebrations among the holders.
The victory extended Argentina’s reputation as comeback specialists after another dramatic escape earlier in the tournament and moved them within one victory of successfully defending the World Cup title. They now stand on the verge of becoming the first nation since Brazil in 1958 and 1962 to retain football’s biggest prize.
Sunday’s final promises to be a clash worthy of the occasion as the reigning world champions face European champions Spain at New York New Jersey Stadium. Argentina, inspired by Messi and boasting the tournament’s most prolific attack with 19 goals, will seek a fourth World Cup crown, while Spain, who have conceded only once throughout the competition, are chasing a second world title since their triumph in 2010.
