Lionel Messi once again proved why he remains one of football's greatest players as Argentina booked their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final with a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over England in Atlanta. Although the Argentine captain did not score, his two assists transformed the match and kept the defending champions on course for consecutive World Cup titles. Argentina will now face Spain in the final on July 19 in New Jersey.
Argentina vs England
England looked set to reach the final after Anthony Gordon gave his side the lead early in the second half. Argentina struggled to break through England's disciplined defense for much of the match, but the momentum shifted dramatically in the closing minutes. Lionel Messi took control when his vision and precise passing created the equalizer. Enzo Fernandez met the opportunity with a powerful volley from outside the penalty area in the 85th minute to level the score.
Just minutes later, Messi delivered another decisive pass that found Lautaro Martinez, who headed home the winning goal. The late turnaround stunned England and completed another memorable comeback for the South American champions.
Lionel Messi assists
Messi's influence extended far beyond the statistics. The 39-year-old controlled Argentina's attacks, created space for teammates and consistently troubled England's defense. His two assists took his tournament tally to eight goals and four assists, making him the leading goal contribution player at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
After the match, Messi praised his teammates for refusing to surrender despite trailing late in the game. He described the victory as another example of Argentina's determination and unity while acknowledging the historical significance of facing England on such a big stage.
Enzo Fernandez goal
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni praised his players for their resilience and fighting spirit. Speaking after the victory, Scaloni said the team continues to surprise him with its determination and willingness to battle until the final whistle. He added that Argentina would give everything to defend its World Cup crown in the championship match.
Fernandez's spectacular equalizer injected fresh belief into Argentina and shifted the pressure onto England. The midfielder's strike was one of the defining moments of the semifinal and laid the foundation for the dramatic finish.
World Cup final 2026
Argentina now prepares for a highly anticipated final against Spain, a team Messi knows well from his years in Spanish football. The Argentine captain acknowledged Spain's technical quality, disciplined playing style and strong football philosophy while expressing confidence in his own team's ability to compete.
If Argentina defeats Spain, it will become the first nation since Brazil to win back-to-back FIFA World Cup titles. Based on official FIFA tournament results and post-match comments from Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni and Lionel Messi, the defending champions have once again demonstrated why they remain among the world's strongest international teams. Their latest comeback highlights the experience, leadership and composure that continue to define this remarkable generation of Argentine football.
