Messi magic sends Argentina past England into World Cup final
Argentina defeated England 2-1 in the World Cup semi-final, with Lionel Messi providing two assists to secure a spot in the final against Spain. The victory keeps Argentina's hopes alive for back-to-back World Cup titles.
Why it matters
This match marks a significant moment in international football history as Argentina attempts to become the first team since 1962 to win consecutive World Cups.
ATLANTA, July 16 — Lionel Messi engineered a spectacular comeback for Argentina against England in their World Cup semi-final on Wednesday to keep his team on track for back-to-back titles.
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 in Atlanta.
It sets up a mouthwatering contest between reigning European champions Spain and South American champions Argentina in New Jersey on Sunday.
The Albiceleste, followed at the 2026 World Cup by legions of fans, are just 90 minutes away from becoming the first side since Brazil in 1962 to win consecutive World Cups.
“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.
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