Lionel Messi Fuels Argentina’s Stunning Late Rally Past England into World Cup Final

• Lionel Messi inspired another unforgettable Argentina comeback as Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez scored late goals to defeat England 2-1 and send the defending champions into the 2026 World Cup final against Spain.

Argentina produced another dramatic late comeback to defeat England 2-1 and book their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, with Lionel Messi once again inspiring the defending champions when it mattered most.

In a fiercely contested semifinal that swung between physical battles and moments of brilliance, England looked destined for the final after taking the lead midway through the second half through Anthony Gordon.

However, Argentina refused to surrender.

With just minutes remaining, Enzo Fernández fired home a stunning equaliser in the 87th minute before Lautaro Martínez completed the turnaround four minutes later after being set up by Messi, sealing yet another unforgettable comeback for La Albiceleste.

The victory sends Argentina into Sunday’s World Cup final against Spain, where they will attempt to defend the title they won four years ago.

The match lived up to its historic rivalry, with fierce tackles, heated exchanges and relentless intensity from the opening whistle. Both sides struggled to create clear-cut chances in a bruising first half dominated by physical duels and tactical battles.

England eventually broke the deadlock in the 55th minute when Morgan Rogers delivered a pinpoint cross for Anthony Gordon, who calmly finished to give Thomas Tuchel’s side a 1-0 advantage.

But Argentina gradually increased the pressure, forcing Jordan Pickford into several crucial saves before Fernández finally found the breakthrough late in the game.

Just moments later, Messi delivered another decisive contribution, slipping a perfectly timed pass to Lautaro Martínez, who finished clinically to send Argentina into another World Cup final.

While England’s wait for a first World Cup title since 1966 continues, Argentina remain on course to retain their crown, with Messi edging one step closer to another historic triumph on football’s biggest stage.