'That's why he's the king' - Messi sets up third World Cup final
Lionel Messi led Argentina to a 2-1 victory over England, securing a spot in the World Cup final against Spain. Messi provided two crucial assists, further cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players in football history.
Why it matters
Messi's performance at age 39 continues to influence the trajectory of international football and the outcome of the world's most-watched sporting event.
Figure caption, Argentina shatter England's World Cup dreams in semi-final
Four years ago it felt as if Lionel Messi's story was told.
He had finally won the World Cup, aged 35, in what he said was his last game in the tournament and - depending on your point of view - cemented his place as football's greatest ever player.
Four years before that, aged 31, many - including those around him - felt he had played his final World Cup game and would end his career without winning it.
And here he is at 39, having helped take England to the cleaners and send Argentina to their second World Cup final in a row.
Messi's two assists helped the South American side come from behind to win 2-1 , taking him up to four assists at the 2026 World Cup - to go with his eight goals.
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