Messi magic sends Argentina into World Cup final
Argentina defeated England 2-1 in the World Cup semi-finals following a late goal by Lautaro Martinez. The victory sets up a final match against Spain in New Jersey.
Why it matters
The World Cup is a major global sporting event with significant cultural and economic impact on the participating nations.
England were agonisingly close to reaching their first World Cup final for 60 years before succumbing to relentless pressure from Lionel Scaloni's team, who roared back to win 2-1.
It sets up a mouthwatering contest between reigning European champions Spain and South American champions Argentina in New Jersey on Sunday.
"The other day I said this group never stops surprising me," said Scaloni. "And I'll tell you the truth, we're going to try to win, we're going to leave everything out there.
"But after this it's very difficult to get people to understand what these players are showing. It's incredible. We are unique, truly, and it's not arrogance, it's from the heart."
Anthony Gordon fired England ahead in the 55th minute but Argentina refused to be beaten, pouring forward in waves and forcing their opponents back.
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