Argentina World Cup late wins has Messi's team on rare list
Argentina has advanced to the 2026 World Cup final after a late-game victory against England. The team is noted for a rare streak of winning consecutive knockout games with goals scored in the 80th minute or later.
Why it matters
This highlights a historic statistical trend in international sports, drawing comparisons to legendary World Cup performances of the past.
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With a tight 2-1 victory over England in the 2026 World Cup semifinal thanks to Lautaro Martinez’s stoppage time winner, Argentina has now won four straight games on goals scored in the 80th minute or later.
Argentina’s first three knockout round games in the World Cup all went down to the wire. Lionel Messi and company beat Cape Verde in extra time, then rallied past Egypt before slipping by Switzerland with a pair of extra-time goals.
Three previous teams in men’s World Cup history have won three or more consecutive games decided in the 80th minute or later, extra time or penalties. Only one went on to win the tournament.
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