Late Lautaro Strike Sends Argentina Past England Into World Cup Final

Posted : 15 July 2026

Defending champions Argentina produced a dramatic late comeback to defeat England 2-1 in Atlanta on Wednesday, booking their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final against European champions Spain. Lionel Scaloni's side overturned a one-goal deficit in the closing minutes, with Lionel Messi inspiring the turnaround before substitute Lautaro Martinez headed home the winning goal in stoppage time.

England looked set to reach their first World Cup final since lifting the trophy in 1966 after Anthony Gordon broke the deadlock 10 minutes into the second half. Thomas Tuchel's side defended resolutely for much of the contest and appeared on course to end decades of World Cup frustration before Argentina's relentless late pressure changed the outcome.

The breakthrough for Argentina arrived in the 85th minute when Messi slipped a perfectly weighted pass to Enzo Fernandez, who controlled the ball before firing beyond Jordan Pickford to restore parity. Buoyed by the equaliser, Argentina continued to press, and their persistence was rewarded deep into stoppage time when Messi delivered a pinpoint cross that Lautaro Martinez powered into the net with a decisive header.

The victory keeps Argentina's hopes of retaining the World Cup alive, something no nation has achieved since Brazil successfully defended the title in 1962. The triumph also sees Messi reach another historic milestone, with the 39-year-old set to become only the second player after Brazilian legend Cafu to appear in three FIFA World Cup finals.

For England, the defeat was a devastating end to a promising campaign. Jude Bellingham and captain Harry Kane, who had been instrumental throughout the tournament, were unable to influence the game when it mattered most as the Three Lions surrendered their advantage late on. The result means England will now face France in Saturday's third-place playoff, while Argentina will take on Spain in Sunday's final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

The semifinal added another memorable chapter to one of international football's fiercest rivalries. Following a tense first half with few clear-cut opportunities, Gordon's goal briefly gave England control before Argentina mounted a remarkable fightback reminiscent of the resilience they have shown throughout the tournament, having already produced dramatic comeback victories in earlier knockout rounds.

Messi once again proved to be the difference, orchestrating both goals and delivering another match-winning performance as Argentina moved within one victory of consecutive World Cup titles. His leadership and creativity ensured the reigning champions remained on course to defend their crown against a formidable Spanish side in what promises to be a blockbuster final.

Late Lautaro Strike Sends Argentina Past England Into World Cup Final

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