Argentina vs England: Messi Sparks Incredible Comeback as Argentina Reach FIFA World Cup 2026 Final
- By Thetripurapost Sports Desk, Atlanta
- Jul 16, 2026
- 113
Defending FIFA World Cup champions Argentina produced one of the tournament's most dramatic comebacks, defeating England 2-1 to secure a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final. Led by captain Lionel Messi, Argentina overturned a late deficit with two goals in the closing minutes to book a blockbuster title clash against Spain on July 19.
England looked set for a famous victory after Anthony Gordon gave the Three Lions the lead early in the second half. However, Argentina's never-say-die attitude transformed the contest, with Enzo Fernandez equalising before Lautaro Martinez headed home Messi's inch-perfect cross in stoppage time.
Messi Delivers Again as Argentina Seal Another World Cup Final
Lionel Messi once again proved why he remains one of football's greatest players. With Argentina facing elimination, the legendary forward created both decisive moments.
His clever short-corner routine allowed Enzo Fernandez to unleash a sensational long-range strike in the 86th minute. Moments later, Messi delivered a perfectly weighted cross that Lautaro Martinez converted with a powerful header to complete an unforgettable turnaround.
The victory sends Argentina into consecutive FIFA World Cup finals and keeps alive their dream of defending the world title.
England Impress but Fall Short in Dramatic Finish
The semi-final was fiercely contested from the opening whistle, featuring physical duels, heated confrontations and several yellow cards.
England threatened first through John Stones before Jordan Pickford denied Julian Alvarez after halftime.
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The breakthrough finally arrived in the 55th minute when Morgan Rogers supplied an excellent cross for Anthony Gordon, who calmly finished from close range to put England ahead.
For more than 30 minutes, England appeared destined for the final before Argentina launched a remarkable late assault.
Fernandez and Lautaro Complete Memorable Comeback
With just minutes remaining, Argentina earned a corner that changed the course of the match.
Messi's quick pass found Enzo Fernandez outside the penalty area, and the midfielder fired an unstoppable shot into the net from approximately 25 yards.
Deep into stoppage time, Messi delivered another moment of brilliance, floating a precise cross into the box where substitute Lautaro Martinez rose highest to head past Pickford and send Argentina supporters into celebration.
Argentina One Win Away from Historic Fourth World Cup Trophy
Argentina will now appear in their seventh FIFA World Cup Final, having previously reached the championship match in 1930, 1978, 1986, 1990, 2014 and 2022.
The South American giants lifted the trophy in 1978, 1986 and 2022. Victory over Spain would secure a fourth FIFA World Cup title and make Argentina the first team in years to successfully defend the world championship.
Argentina vs Spain: FIFA World Cup Final Awaits
Football fans around the globe now await an exciting showdown between Argentina and Spain, with Lionel Messi aiming to add another glorious chapter to his legendary international career.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 Final promises to be one of the biggest sporting events of the year as two football powerhouses battle for the game's most prestigious trophy.
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