Messi guides Argentina to 2-1 win over England, reaches World Cup final
Argentina defeated England 2-1 in the World Cup semi-final on July 15, 2026 at Atlanta Stadium. England's Anthony Gordon scored first in the 85th minute before Lionel Messi assisted Enzo Fernandez for the equaliser and then delivered the cross for Lautaro Martinez's winning header. Messi, aged 39, did not score but provided the two assists that secured the victory.
The win was described by Messi as special, noting it was a fixture the Argentine people wanted. He has now played a record 33 World Cup games across six tournaments. Argentina have never lost a World Cup semi-final, and Messi will appear in a second straight final, third overall. The team aims to become the first to retain the trophy since Brazil in 1962, which would make Messi only the second player after Brazil's Cafu to feature in three finals. He also holds the record for most World Cup goals with 21.
The final against Spain is scheduled for Sunday. Fans can follow the match to see whether Argentina can defend the title and whether Messi adds another chapter to his legendary career. Will you be watching to see if Messi achieves a third final appearance, or will you be rooting for Argentina's bid to retain the cup?