ATLANTA: Lionel Messi once again produced a defining moment on football’s biggest stage as Argentina completed a dramatic late comeback to defeat England 2-1 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final. The defending champions were staring at elimination after falling behind, but Messi’s brilliance in the closing stages inspired a stunning turnaround that booked Argentina’s place in a second consecutive World Cup final.
England appeared to be on course for their first World Cup final appearance since 1966 after Anthony Gordon gave them the lead in the 55th minute at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium. However, Argentina responded with relentless pressure, with Enzo Fernandez equalising in the 85th minute before Lautaro Martinez scored the winning goal in stoppage time.
Messi played a central role in both goals, providing assists that once again highlighted his extraordinary ability to influence matches even at the age of 39.
Messi delivers when Argentina need him most
Argentina’s journey through the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stages has been defined by resilience and late-game heroics, and the semi-final against England followed the same pattern. The reigning champions refused to surrender despite trailing for much of the second half.
England had frustrated Argentina for long periods, limiting their attacking opportunities and defending with discipline. The Three Lions’ defensive structure appeared to be working perfectly after Gordon’s goal, but Argentina’s experience and belief eventually changed the course of the match.
The equaliser arrived when Messi played a clever pass to Enzo Fernandez outside the penalty area. Fernandez controlled the ball before unleashing a powerful strike beyond England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, bringing Argentina level.
With momentum shifting, Argentina continued to attack. In the second minute of stoppage time, Messi collected possession on the right flank and delivered a perfectly weighted cross into the penalty area. Lautaro Martinez rose above the England defence and headed the ball into the net, completing a remarkable comeback.
The victory continued Argentina’s incredible record of producing decisive moments late in matches during this tournament.
England left to rue missed opportunity
For England, the defeat represented another painful chapter in their search for a second World Cup title. Thomas Tuchel’s team had controlled much of the contest and looked close to ending a 60-year wait for a place in the final.
The Three Lions started cautiously, with both teams involved in a physical midfield battle during the opening half. Clear chances were limited, but England found their breakthrough shortly after the interval.
Harry Kane helped create the move before Morgan Rogers delivered a low cross from the right. Gordon arrived at the far post and finished confidently to give England a 1-0 advantage.
However, England’s decision to retreat after taking the lead allowed Argentina to build pressure. The defending champions increased their attacking intensity, forcing goalkeeper Pickford into important saves.
Nico Gonzalez came close with a header that was stopped by Pickford, while Alexis Mac Allister struck the post as Argentina searched for an equaliser. Despite England’s defensive efforts, they could not withstand the late pressure from Messi and his teammates.
The defeat means England will now face France in the third-place playoff, while Argentina advance to meet Spain in the World Cup final.
Messi continues to create World Cup history
The semi-final victory added another remarkable achievement to Messi’s legendary international career. By reaching the final, Messi became only the second player after Brazil great Cafu to appear in three FIFA World Cup finals.
After guiding Argentina to their third World Cup title in 2022, Messi now has the opportunity to lead his nation to back-to-back championships. No team has achieved that feat since Brazil won consecutive titles in 1958 and 1962.
Messi’s performance against England also strengthened his legacy as one of the greatest players in football history. While he did not score, his influence was decisive, with two assists proving the difference between victory and defeat.
Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni praised the team’s character and the support from fans, as the defending champions continue their pursuit of another historic triumph.
Argentina set up blockbuster final against Spain
Argentina will now face Spain in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, creating a clash between the reigning champions of South America and Europe’s current football powerhouses.
Spain reached the final after defeating France 2-0 in the other semi-final, while Argentina overcame England through another unforgettable comeback.
The final will provide Messi with another opportunity to add to his extraordinary career achievements. Having already delivered Argentina’s long-awaited World Cup glory in Qatar, the veteran forward now stands one victory away from another historic triumph.
For England, the focus shifts towards rebuilding after a heartbreaking defeat. Their players showed determination throughout the tournament, but their inability to hold onto their lead against Argentina will remain a painful memory.
Argentina’s victory once again demonstrated why they remain one of the most dangerous teams in international football. With Messi leading from the front and a squad capable of producing moments of brilliance under pressure, La Albiceleste will enter the final believing they can create more history.