FIFA World Cup 2026: Messi Inspires Argentina’s Stunning Comeback to Reach World Cup Final
Defending champions Argentina produced a dramatic late comeback to defeat England 2-1 and book their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, where they will face Spain on Sunday.
According to a report by FIFA.com, England looked on course for their first World Cup final appearance in six decades after Anthony Gordon gave them the lead in the 55th minute.
However, Argentina responded in spectacular fashion as Enzo Fernandez and substitute Lautaro Martinez scored in the closing stages, with Lionel Messi providing assists for both goals.
The first half was a tense and fiercely contested affair, with clear-cut chances at a premium.
England threatened through John Stones, whose header from a Declan Rice free-kick drifted wide, while Fernandez fired over the crossbar at the opposite end.
Argentina came out stronger after the break, with Julian Alvarez forcing Jordan Pickford into a sharp save after breaking into the penalty area.
Despite the early pressure, it was England who struck first when Morgan Rogers delivered a low cross from the right and Gordon arrived at the back post to guide a composed finish beyond Emiliano Martinez.
England defended resolutely as Argentina searched for an equalizer.
Djed Spence produced a crucial last-ditch challenge to deny Giuliano Simeone, while Pickford made an excellent save to keep out Nico Gonzalez’s header.
Alexis Mac Allister also came close, rattling the post as Argentina continued to push forward.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 85th minute when Messi set up Fernandez following a short-corner routine, allowing the midfielder to fire a powerful long-range effort past Pickford.
Argentina completed the turnaround deep into stoppage time.
After Mac Allister’s effort struck the post, Messi reacted quickest to keep the attack alive before delivering a precise cross that Lautaro Martinez converted at the far post to seal a memorable victory.
The comeback sends Argentina into their seventh FIFA World Cup final as they move within one win of successfully defending their world title, while England’s hopes of ending their long wait for another World Cup final appearance were dashed in heartbreaking fashion.