Lionel Messi inspired a stunning late comeback as defending champions Argentina defeated England 2-1 to book their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
England looked destined to reach their first World Cup final in six decades after Anthony Gordon fired the Three Lions into the lead in the 55th minute.
However, Argentina mounted a remarkable fightback in the closing stages, with captain Lionel Messi orchestrating both goals in a dramatic seven-minute spell.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner first provided the assist for Enzo Fernández to level the score in the 85th minute, restoring hope for Lionel Scaloni’s side.
With the match heading towards extra time, Messi again produced a moment of brilliance, delivering a pinpoint cross that Lautaro Martínez headed home in stoppage time to complete the comeback and seal a 2-1 victory.
The victory sends Argentina into the World Cup final, where they will face Spain in a blockbuster showdown as they seek to successfully defend the title they won in Qatar four years ago.
Messi’s decisive contribution once again underlined his influence on the biggest stage, with two assists in seven minutes proving enough to send Argentina into another FIFA World Cup final.