Defending Champions Argentina Reach Second Straight World Cup Final

Defending champions Argentina produced a sensational late comeback to beat England 2-1 in a pulsating FIFA World Cup semifinal on Wednesday, overturning a one-goal deficit in the closing minutes to book their place in a blockbuster final against Spain . The victory keeps Lionel Messi's side on course to become the first nation since Brazil (1958 and 1962) to successfully defend the men's World Cup title.

Played before a packed and passionate crowd in Atlanta , the semifinal rekindled one of international football's greatest rivalries. The electric atmosphere was evident even before kickoff as supporters of both teams attempted to drown out each other's national anthems, setting the stage for another memorable chapter in the storied Argentina-England rivalry.

After a cagey first half, England struck first in the 55th minute when Anthony Gordon found the back of the net, putting the Three Lions on course for what would have been their first World Cup final appearance since 1966 . England defended resolutely for much of the second half, but Argentina steadily increased the tempo, dominating possession and forcing the English defence onto the back foot.

The breakthrough arrived in the 85th minute when Enzo Fernandez converted Argentina's sustained pressure into an equaliser. Sensing the momentum had shifted, the South Americans launched one final assault, and in the second minute of stoppage time , substitute Lautaro Martinez headed home a pinpoint cross from Lionel Messi , completing a dramatic turnaround and sending Argentine supporters into celebration.

Although Messi did not score, the 39-year-old captain once again proved decisive. The veteran playmaker orchestrated Argentina's attacking moves throughout the contest and provided the assist for the winning goal, underlining why he remains one of the tournament's standout performers and a leading contender for the Golden Boot .

The victory carries historic significance for Argentina , who are now one win away from lifting a fourth FIFA World Cup after their previous triumphs in 1978, 1986 and 2022 . Their quest to retain the title also revives memories of Brazil's back-to-back World Cup victories more than six decades ago.

The semifinal added another memorable chapter to a rivalry that has shaped World Cup history, from England's quarterfinal victory in 1966 to Diego Maradona's iconic "Hand of God" and "Goal of the Century" in 1986 , Argentina's penalty shootout triumph in 1998 , and England's 1-0 group-stage win in 2002 .

For England , the defeat marked another painful near miss after leading deep into the second half. Despite a disciplined defensive display for much of the contest, the Three Lions were unable to withstand Argentina's relentless late surge.

Argentina will now face Spain , the reigning European champions , in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final on Sunday at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey , with the defending world champions aiming to complete another landmark chapter in their footballing history.