Lautaro Martínez’s stoppage-time winner completes dramatic comeback as Lionel Messi inspires defending champions into Sunday’s title showdown.
ASAL POST | 2026 FIFA WORLD CUP | July 15, 2026
ARLINGTON, TEXAS – Argentina produced a remarkable late comeback to defeat England 2-1 on Wednesday, booking their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final against Spain after a thrilling semifinal in Arlington, Texas.
The defending champions fought back from a goal down with two late strikes to shatter England’s hopes of reaching their first World Cup final in 60 years.
England looked destined for victory after Anthony Gordon gave the Three Lions the lead midway through the second half, but Argentina refused to surrender. Enzo Fernández restored parity five minutes from full time before Lautaro Martínez headed home Lionel Messi’s cross deep into stoppage time to seal a memorable victory for Lionel Scaloni’s men.
England’s Dream Ends in Heartbreak
After a tightly contested first half, England broke the deadlock in the 55th minute when Gordon found the back of the net, sparking hopes of a long-awaited appearance in the World Cup final.
Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford produced several outstanding saves to keep Argentina at bay as England defended their slender advantage against relentless Argentine attacks.
However, the pressure finally paid off in the 85th minute when Fernández fired home the equaliser, setting up a dramatic finale.
Moments later, Messi delivered a perfectly weighted cross into the penalty area, where Martínez rose highest to head past Pickford and send Argentina into the championship match.
Messi Leads from the Front
Argentina captain Lionel Messi once again demonstrated his influence on the biggest stage, providing the decisive assist for the winning goal and extending his impressive World Cup campaign.
His creativity, leadership and composure proved instrumental as Argentina overturned the deficit to keep alive their hopes of retaining the FIFA World Cup trophy.
The victory means Lionel Scaloni’s side remains on course to become back-to-back world champions.
Spain Await in Blockbuster Final
Argentina will now face Spain in Sunday’s FIFA World Cup final after La Roja defeated France 2-0 in the first semifinal.
The highly anticipated showdown will feature two of the tournament’s most impressive teams, with Argentina seeking to defend their crown while Spain chase another world title.
England, meanwhile, will take on France in the third-place playoff after suffering another painful semifinal exit.
Rivalry Produces Another Classic
The semifinal added another memorable chapter to one of international football’s greatest rivalries.
Despite entering the closing stages with a one-goal advantage, England were unable to withstand Argentina’s relentless pressure, as the South Americans delivered a stunning comeback to secure victory.
The result extends Argentina’s impressive run in the tournament and keeps alive their dream of lifting another FIFA World Cup trophy.
With Messi continuing to inspire his teammates and Spain waiting in the final, football fans around the world are set for a captivating conclusion to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
