Argentina produced a remarkable late comeback to defeat England 2-1 in a dramatic FIFA 2026 World Cup semi-final in Atlanta on Wednesday, booking a place in Sunday’s final against Spain.
The defending champions looked destined for elimination after Anthony Gordon fired England ahead 10 minutes into the second half, putting Thomas Tuchel’s side on course for their first men’s World Cup final since lifting the trophy in 1966.
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However, Lionel Messi once again inspired Argentina’s fightback as Enzo Fernandez levelled with a superb strike in the 85th minute before substitute Lautaro Martinez headed home the winner in stoppage time from Messi’s cross.
The victory keeps alive Argentina’s dream of becoming the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the World Cup title.
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England struck first after Gordon capitalised on sustained pressure to give the Three Lions a deserved lead in front of 68,239 spectators at Atlanta Stadium.
But Argentina responded when Messi unlocked England’s defence with a perfectly weighted pass that allowed Fernandez to curl home the equaliser five minutes from time.
With extra time appearing inevitable, Messi delivered another moment of brilliance, floating a precise cross into the penalty area, where Martinez rose highest to head past the England goalkeeper in the 92nd minute.
The dramatic turnaround added another memorable chapter to the storied World Cup rivalry between Argentina and England, a fixture that has produced several iconic encounters over the decades.
The result also sees Messi become only the second player, after Brazil legend Cafu, to feature in three World Cup finals.
Argentina will now face European champions Spain in Sunday’s final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, with the South Americans aiming to secure back-to-back World Cup titles.
England, meanwhile, will take on France in the third-place play-off as their long wait for a second World Cup crown continues.
