Messi's late cross propels Argentina into World Cup final in Atlanta

Argentina's dramatic comeback in the World Cup semifinal on July 15, 2026, in Atlanta secured their place in the final, as Lionel Messi’s pinpoint cross in the dying minutes found substitute Lautaro Martínez, whose header past Jordan Pickford clinched a 2‑1 victory over England. England opened the scoring when Anthony Gordon netted early, putting the reigning champions on the back foot. The early goal forced Lionel Scaloni’s side to adjust their tactics, shifting to a more attacking shape in the second half. Argentina pressed relentlessly for the first hour, with Alexis Mac Allister rattling the post twice and Messi whipping a cross that Nicolas González headed, only for Pickford to make a save.

Lautaro Martinez's tears propel Argentina to World Cup final

Later, Messi’s pass to the edge of the box set up Enzo Fernández, whose strike beat Pickford to level the match, reviving Argentina’s momentum. Mac Allister again struck the post, underscoring the growing Argentine threat as attacks continued to flood the Atlanta end. In the dying minutes, Messi delivered a perfect cross to the back post, where Martínez headed past Pickford for the winner, sending the stadium into a frenzy.

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Thomas Tuchel watched helplessly as the English side sank deeper, while Harry Kane stood with his hands on his hips at the final whistle, and Messi approached the English captain to offer consolation. Messi and Co. will now meet Spain in the final on Sunday in New Jersey, aiming to become only the third nation to retain the World Cup trophy, in a clash billed as the FINAL DE ARGENTINA EN.