Key Takeaways
- Lionel Messi provided two crucial assists to help Argentina beat England 2-1.
- The win sets up a showdown between Argentina and Spain in the final on Sunday.
- Messi now has three World Cup finals appearances, including this one.
Argentina's Lionel Messi added another chapter to his illustrious career by securing a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final with two late assists against England. The match, which took place on Wednesday, saw Argentina overturn a one-goal deficit and secure victory through Enzo Fernández’s equaliser and Lautaro Martínez's winner.
The 39-year-old captain, who has now reached three World Cup finals in his career, was instrumental in the comeback. His first assist set up Fernández for an equalising goal just before half-time, while his second provided the cross that allowed Martínez to score the decisive goal with mere minutes remaining.
England had taken a 1-0 lead through Harry Kane's penalty early in the match but Argentina's resilience and tactical acumen saw them turn the tables. The victory not only secured Argentina’s place in the final against Spain, which will be held on Sunday, but also cemented Messi’s status as one of football’s all-time greats.
In a post-match interview, Messi expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance: 'It is crazy,' he said. 'We were down 1-0 and we managed to come back. The boys showed incredible character.'
The win was particularly significant for Argentina as they aim to secure their second consecutive World Cup title. Their last victory came in 2022, when Messi led them to glory against France in the final. This time around, the team faces a formidable challenge from Spain, who have been impressive throughout the tournament.
For England, the defeat marks an end to their campaign and leaves them reflecting on how they could have held onto their early lead. Manager Gareth Southgate acknowledged his side's shortcomings: 'We were not good enough today,' he said. 'Argentina deserved to win.'
With the final set for Sunday at the iconic Lusail Iconic Stadium in Doha, Qatar, all eyes will be on Messi and Argentina as they seek to add another World Cup title to their trophy cabinet.
'It is crazy,' he said. 'We were down 1-0 and we managed to come back. The boys showed incredible character.'
Lionel Messi, Argentina captain
'We were not good enough today,' he said. 'Argentina deserved to win.'
Gareth Southgate, England manager
