Argentina came from behind to defeat England 2-1 in a tense World Cup semi-final on Wednesday, booking a place in Sunday’s final against Spain.
In a match dripping with history, it was Lionel Messi who provided the decisive moment, setting up Lautaro Martínez for a 90th-minute winner at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
England struck first through Anthony Gordon, catching Argentina cold and silencing the large contingent of Albiceleste supporters.
But Argentina responded with typical resilience. Midfielder Enzo Fernández drew them level with a composed finish, shifting the momentum back to Lionel Scaloni’s side.
With the game heading for extra time, Messi produced a moment of magic. The captain threaded a ball through to Lautaro Martínez, who headed home in 90+2’ to send Argentina through.
It was a cruel end for England, who had defended resolutely but could not hold on against waves of Argentine pressure in the second half.
Wednesday’s semi-final was the first World Cup meeting between the two nations since 2002, and the first ever at the semi-final stage.
The rivalry dates back decades — from Geoff Hurst’s winner in 1966, to Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” and “Goal of the Century” in the famous 2-1 quarter-final win in 1986, to David Beckham’s red card in 1998.
This time, it was Messi’s generation that wrote the next chapter. Argentina now have a chance to win a third World Cup title.
Argentina will face Spain in the World Cup final on Sunday. Spain booked their spot with a win over France on Tuesday night.
