By Ghazali Ibrahim
Defending champions Argentina produced a dramatic late comeback to defeat England 2-1 on Wednesday and book their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, where they will face Spain in a blockbuster showdown.
England looked on course for a famous victory after Anthony Gordon broke the deadlock in the 55th minute, giving Thomas Tuchel’s side a deserved lead following a disciplined defensive display.
However, Lionel Scaloni’s men mounted a remarkable fightback in the closing stages. Midfielder Enzo Fernández restored parity in the 85th minute before substitute Lautaro Martínez headed home the winner deep into stoppage time from a pinpoint cross by captain Lionel Messi, completing a stunning turnaround.
The victory sends Argentina into a second successive World Cup final as they continue their quest to retain the title they won in Qatar four years ago.
The Albiceleste will now face Spain, who defeated France 2-0 in the other semi-final, in Sunday’s final in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Messi, playing at the age of 39, once again proved decisive, providing the assist for the winning goal and taking his tournament tally to eight goals and four assists, strengthening his position in the race for the Golden Boot.
The semi-final lived up to its billing as one of football’s fiercest rivalries, with both sides battling intensely throughout a physical contest before Argentina’s quality shone through in the closing minutes.
England, despite taking the lead and defending resolutely for much of the match, were unable to withstand the late pressure from the South American giants.
Argentina will now attempt to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the FIFA World Cup title, while England must regroup for the third-place playoff against France after falling agonisingly short of a place in the final.
