Holders Argentina came from behind to defeat England 2-1 in Atlanta and reach the FIFA World Cup 2026 final.
Lionel Messi once again played a crucial role in Argentina’s victory.
The first half failed to produce a single goal despite a couple of scoring opportunities for both sides.
Anthony Gordon’s 55th-minute goal gave England a 1-0 lead, sending England fans into a frenzy. Argentina continued to pile on the pressure despite trailing 1-0 and finally levelled the scores, thanks to Enzo Fernández’s stunning strike in the 85th minute.
Messi’s perfectly weighted right-footed cross helped Lautaro Martínez score Argentina’s winning goal in added time.
Argentina will take on Spain in the final on Sunday in New Jersey.
Messi was named the Michelob Ultra Superior Player of the Match for his outstanding performance.
Later, speaking to reporters, Messi said: “No words, no words. A joy for our country, for our people. The other day, I said this group never stops surprising me. And I’ll tell you the truth, we’re going to try to win, we’re going to leave everything out there, but after this it’s very difficult to get people to understand what these players are showing. It’s incredible. We are unique, truly, and it’s not arrogance, it’s from the heart. We are unique. These people today carried us to win the match, so I’m grateful.”
