Defending champions Argentina booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final after producing a sensational late comeback to defeat England 2-1 in a thrilling semifinal on Wednesday. Lionel Scaloni’s side showed incredible resilience, overturning a one-goal deficit in the closing minutes to keep their dream of back-to-back World Cup titles alive.
The first half was a fiercely contested affair, with both teams creating opportunities but failing to break the deadlock. England looked organized defensively, while Argentina enjoyed more possession without finding a way past goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. The match was marked by intense physical battles in midfield as both sides fought for a place in the final.
England struck first early in the second half when Anthony Gordon finished a well-worked move to give the Three Lions a 1-0 advantage. The goal put Thomas Tuchel’s men within touching distance of their first World Cup final since 1966, and they appeared to be in control for much of the second half.
However, Argentina refused to surrender. With just five minutes remaining, midfielder Enzo Fernández unleashed a stunning strike from outside the penalty area to level the score and reignite Argentine hopes. The equalizer shifted the momentum completely, leaving England under immense pressure in the closing moments.
Deep into stoppage time, Lionel Messi once again proved why he remains one of football’s greatest players. The veteran forward delivered a precise cross into the box, where substitute Lautaro Martínez rose highest to head home the dramatic winner, sending Argentina’s players and supporters into wild celebrations.
Messi’s influence extended beyond the winning assist, as the 39-year-old continued his remarkable tournament. With eight goals and four assists, he now leads the race for the Golden Boot and has guided Argentina to a second consecutive World Cup final.
Argentina will now face Spain in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final after the European champions defeated France 2-0 in the other semifinal. Meanwhile, England will take on France in the third-place playoff as they look to end their campaign with a victory.