Lionel Messi produced another match-winning performance as Argentina came from behind to defeat England 2-1 and secure a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
The reigning champions showed their trademark resilience in Wednesday’s semi-final in Atlanta, overturning a second-half deficit to keep alive their hopes of defending the title they won in Qatar four years ago.
England took the lead in the 55th minute through Anthony Gordon, putting the Three Lions on course for a place in the final after a strong display.
Argentina, however, fought back and found an equaliser 30 minutes later when Enzo Fernández calmly finished to level the score and shift the momentum.
With extra time appearing inevitable, Messi produced the decisive moment. The 39-year-old captain delivered a pinpoint cross into the box, where Lautaro MartÃnez rose above the defence to head home the winning goal deep into stoppage time.
The dramatic victory sends Argentina into a second straight World Cup final and leaves them one win away from becoming the first country since Brazil in 1962 to successfully retain the FIFA World Cup trophy.
Awaiting Lionel Scaloni’s side in the final is Spain, who booked their place with a 2-0 victory over France in Tuesday’s semi-final.
