Defending champions Argentina produced another remarkable comeback to defeat England 2-1 and book their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, where they will face Spain on Sunday.
Lionel Messi once again proved decisive, providing two late assists as Enzo Fernandez and substitute Lautaro Martinez struck in the closing stages to overturn England’s lead in a dramatic semi-final clash.
England looked destined to reach their first FIFA World Cup final since 1966 after Anthony Gordon fired the Three Lions ahead early in the second half. However, Argentina’s resilience and attacking quality turned the contest around in the dying moments.
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The opening half was a tense and closely contested affair, with both sides struggling to create clear-cut chances. England came closest in the 33rd minute when John Stones headed wide from Declan Rice’s free-kick, while Fernandez responded with a powerful effort that sailed over the crossbar.
Argentina began the second half with greater urgency. Julian Alvarez raced beyond Djed Spence following a long pass but saw his effort brilliantly denied by England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.
Despite Argentina’s bright start, England struck first in the 55th minute. Morgan Rogers delivered an inviting low cross from the right flank, allowing Gordon to beat Nahuel Molina at the far post before calmly guiding the ball beyond Emiliano Martinez.
Thomas Tuchel’s side defended resolutely as Argentina piled on the pressure. Djed Spence made a crucial last-ditch challenge to deny Giuliano Simeone, while Pickford produced another outstanding save to keep out Nico Gonzalez’s header. Alexis Mac Allister also came within inches of equalising when his header rattled the post.
Argentina’s persistence finally paid off in the closing stages. Following a well-worked short-corner routine, Messi found Fernandez on the edge of the area, and the Chelsea midfielder unleashed a stunning strike that flew beyond Pickford to restore parity.
With extra time looming, Argentina completed the turnaround in stoppage time. Mac Allister’s effort struck the post, but Messi reacted quickest to recycle possession before delivering a precise cross for Lautaro Martinez to finish at the far post.
The victory sends Argentina into their seventh FIFA World Cup final as they chase back-to-back world titles, while England’s wait for a second World Cup triumph continues.
Spain now stand between Lionel Scaloni’s side and another historic World Cup crown in what promises to be a blockbuster final.