Defending champions Argentina produced a dramatic late comeback to defeat England 2-1 and book their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, where they will face European champions Spain.
England looked set for a first World Cup final appearance since their historic 1966 triumph after Anthony Gordon gave the Three Lions the lead 10 minutes into the second half in front of 68,239 spectators at Atlanta Stadium.
However, Lionel Messi once again proved decisive, inspiring Argentina’s remarkable turnaround in the closing stages of the match.
With five minutes remaining, Messi set up Enzo Fernández to level the score in the 85th minute, before delivering a pinpoint cross for substitute Lautaro Martínez, who headed home the winning goal in stoppage time to seal a memorable victory.
The dramatic comeback keeps Argentina’s hopes alive of becoming the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the FIFA World Cup title.
The victory also sees Lionel Messi become only the second player in history, after Brazilian legend Cafu, to feature in three FIFA World Cup finals.
Argentina will now face Spain in Sunday’s final at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, in a blockbuster showdown between the reigning champions of South America and Europe.
For England, the defeat marks another painful chapter in their World Cup history despite an impressive tournament campaign. Thomas Tuchel’s side will now face France in the third-place playoff.
