By Samuel Akpan
Lionel Messi’s brilliance in the closing stages inspired Argentina to a stunning 2-1 comeback victory over England in the 2026 World Cup semi-final, sending the two-time champions through to face Spain in Sunday’s final.
England had looked set for victory after Anthony Gordon broke the deadlock in the 55th minute.
The substitute, who had replaced Morgan Rogers only moments earlier, ghosted unmarked at the back post to fire home and hand Thomas Tuchel’s side the lead.
The Three Lions’ attacking output has been exceptional throughout the tournament.
They have now scored 14 goals at the 2026 World Cup, a record for England at any men’s major international competition, with Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham leading the way on six goals each and Marcus Rashford and Gordon also finding the target.
Argentina refused to fade.
In the 85th minute, captain Messi produced a moment of quality, sliding a precise pass into the path of Enzo Fernández, who smashed home the equaliser and reignited belief across the South American bench and stands.
The drama was not over. In the second minute of stoppage time, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner delivered another perfectly weighted through ball.
Lisandro Martínez arrived to finish clinically, completing a remarkable turnaround that sent Argentine supporters into raptures.
Rodrigo De Paul was shown a late yellow card deep into added time, but Argentina held their nerve through a tense finale to secure a famous victory and a place in their second consecutive World Cup final.
Spain had already punched their ticket to the showpiece by defeating France 2-0 in the first semi-final, setting up what promises to be a high-stakes clash between two in-form sides.
Argentina’s achievement places them in rare historical company.
Only six reigning men’s World Cup champions have reached the final the following year: Italy after 1934, Brazil after 1958, Argentina after 1986, Brazil after 1994, France after 2018, and now Argentina after 2022.
The last team to successfully defend the title was Brazil in 1962.
Argentina now have the chance to become the first side in 64 years to retain the crown if they overcome Spain on Sunday.
England’s dream of lifting the World Cup for the first time since 1966 is over.
They must quickly regroup for the third-place play-off against France.