Messi's late magic fuels Argentina's comeback in Atlanta

In the dying moments of the World Cup semifinal on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, Lionel Messi delivered a pinpoint cross in Atlanta that Lautaro Martínez headed home, sealing Argentina’s comeback with a 2‑1 victory and sending the La Albiceleste into the final. England took the initiative in the 55th minute when Anthony Gordon found the net, reviving hopes of a first World Cup title since their lone triumph six decades ago. The goal gave England a 2‑1 lead and set a tense tone for the first half. Argentina responded by pressing forward, with Messi orchestrating play but not adding to his tournament‑leading goal tally. The La Albiceleste continued to probe England’s defence throughout the half.

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In the 85th minute Messi pushed out a short corner and immediately located Enzo Fernández 25 yards from goal, whose curling effort past goalkeeper Jordan Pickford levelled the score at 1‑1. The equaliser shifted momentum back to Argentina. Two minutes into stoppage time Messi delivered a pinpoint cross into the box, where Lautaro Martínez slipped between defenders and headed the ball home, securing a 2‑1 victory for Argentina. The decisive moment sealed the comeback and sent the La Albiceleste to the final.

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When the final whistle blew, Messi dropped to his knees in the centre of the field, pumping his fists in celebration, an image captured by Jacob Kupferman/AP in ATLANTA. The win leaves Messi tied with Kylian Mbappé at eight goals, sharing the Golden Boot race, and his 21 World Cup goals make him the all‑time top scorer. Argentina now prepares to face Spain in the final on Sunday, eyeing a repeat championship. The upcoming match will decide whether the La Albiceleste can add another trophy to their history.