Argentina shocks England 2-1 to advance to the World Cup final against Spain
Argentina defeated England 2-1 in a World Cup semi-final match, securing a spot in the final against Spain. Lionel Messi provided the decisive play in stoppage time after England initially took the lead.
Why it matters
The World Cup is a major global sporting event, and this match represents a significant outcome in international football history.
Link Copied! Lionel Messi the difference maker again as Argentina eyes yet more history in Sunday's final By Aleks Klosok Argentina's Lionel Messi celebrates after his cross led to the winning goal against England in second-half stoppage time. Shaun Botterill/Getty Images Cometh the hour, cometh the man.
For large parts of this contest, Lionel Messi cut a quiet, frustrated figure on the pitch.
Thwarted by England’s tenacity and gregariousness, the twinkle-toed talisman and his team were staring down the barrel of a World Cup exit.
Shades of a repeat of Egypt in the round of 16 in this very stadium was casting a long shadow over Messi and his cohort.
Messi is defended by England's Elliot Anderson in the first half. Agustin Marcarian/Reuters From the start, England and manager Thomas Tuchel’s game plan was working to a tee – frustrate, punctuate, and hit Argentina on the counterattack.
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