Defending champions Argentina booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final after producing a remarkable late comeback to defeat England 2-1 in a thrilling semifinal on Wednesday. The dramatic victory sends Lionel Scaloni’s men into their second consecutive World Cup final, where they will face Spain on July 19 at New York New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium).
England looked set to reach their first World Cup final since 1966 after Anthony Gordon gave the Three Lions the lead in the 55th minute. However, Argentina mounted a relentless late assault, with Enzo Fernández equalising in the 85th minute before substitute Lautaro Martínez headed home the winner in stoppage time. Both goals were brilliantly created by Lionel Messi, who once again proved decisive on football’s biggest stage.
At 39 years of age, Messi delivered another masterclass despite not finding the net himself. His two assists took his World Cup assist tally to a record level, while his leadership and composure inspired Argentina to yet another memorable comeback. The victory also keeps alive Argentina’s dream of becoming the first team since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the FIFA World Cup title.
The semifinal added another unforgettable chapter to the historic rivalry between Argentina and England, a fixture that has produced some of the most iconic moments in World Cup history. In front of more than 68,000 spectators in Atlanta, the match featured high intensity, physical battles, and dramatic late twists, living up to expectations as one of the tournament’s biggest encounters.
England’s hopes of ending their 60-year wait for another World Cup title were shattered in the closing minutes despite an impressive defensive display for much of the contest. Manager Thomas Tuchel and his players will now shift their focus to the third-place playoff against France, while Argentina prepare for another shot at football’s biggest prize.
The World Cup final between Argentina and Spain is expected to be one of the most anticipated matches in recent history. Spain arrive after defeating France in the other semifinal, while Argentina enter the final unbeaten and full of confidence. With millions of fans around the world expected to tune in, Sunday’s showdown promises to be a spectacular battle between two football giants for the most coveted trophy in world football.