Lionel Messi once again proved why he remains one of football’s greatest stars after inspiring Argentina to a dramatic comeback victory over England.
The reigning world champions scored twice late in the game to secure a thrilling 2-1 win and book their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
The turnaround stunned thousands of fans inside Atlanta Stadium. England appeared to be heading for a famous victory before Argentina struck twice in the closing minutes.
The result also keeps Argentina’s dream of defending the World Cup alive. Moreover, it gives Messi another chance to make history by appearing in his third FIFA World Cup final, joining an elite list of football legends.
England looked comfortable after Anthony Gordon gave his side the lead in the 55th minute. The goal lifted hopes of reaching the country’s first World Cup final since its famous triumph in 1966.
However, Argentina refused to give up. Their determination paid off as the pressure continued to grow in the closing stages of the match.
Messi changed the game with moments of brilliance. First, he created space before setting up Enzo Fernandez for the equaliser in the 85th minute.
According to the match report, “Messi set up Enzo Fernandez to fire in an 85th-minute equaliser and then, with extra time looming, crossed for substitute Lautaro Martinez to head in the winner in the second minute of stoppage time.”
The match was tense from the opening whistle. Furthermore, both teams battled fiercely as several fouls disrupted the rhythm during the first half.
Although chances were limited before the break, England found their breakthrough shortly after halftime. Harry Kane played a key role in the build-up before Morgan Rogers delivered a dangerous cross into the penalty area.
Anthony Gordon reacted first and guided the ball into the net, putting England within touching distance of the final.
Nevertheless, Argentina gradually took control of possession. In addition, Messi became increasingly influential as England struggled to deal with the growing pressure.
Jordan Pickford produced several important saves to keep England ahead. He denied Nico Gonzalez with a brilliant stop before Alexis Mac Allister struck the post moments later.
Eventually, the pressure became too much.
Messi picked out Fernandez on the edge of the area, and the midfielder fired past Pickford to level the score. Consequently, confidence quickly shifted towards the South American side.
Argentina continued attacking. Mac Allister hit the woodwork again before another dangerous move unfolded deep into stoppage time.
Messi then delivered a perfect cross into the penalty area. Lautaro Martinez rose highest and powered his header into the net to complete an unforgettable comeback.
The victory means Argentina will now meet Spain in Sunday’s World Cup final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
If Argentina wins, it will become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the FIFA World Cup title.
Meanwhile, England must recover quickly before facing France in the third-place playoff.
