Argentina produced a dramatic late comeback to beat England 2-1 in the FIFA World Cup semifinal on Wednesday, with Lionel Messi inspiring the defending champions to a place in Sunday’s final against Spain.
England appeared to be on course for a famous victory after Anthony Gordon broke the deadlock in the 55th minute, finishing a well-worked move set up by Morgan Rogers. The Three Lions held their lead for much of the second half, but Argentina gradually took control of possession as Messi dictated the tempo and repeatedly tested England’s defense.
Argentina’s persistence paid off in the 85th minute when Enzo Fernández curled a superb strike into the net to restore parity after a move initiated by Messi.
With the match heading towards extra time, Messi once again made the decisive contribution in stoppage time, delivering a pinpoint cross that Lautaro Martínez powered home with a header to seal a dramatic 2-1 victory and send Argentina into the World Cup final.
England defended resolutely for long spells, with goalkeeper Jordan Pickford making several crucial saves to keep his side in front. However, Thomas Tuchel’s men struggled to withstand Argentina’s sustained pressure after retreating into a defensive shape following Gordon’s goal.
The victory keeps Argentina on course to successfully defend the World Cup title they won in Qatar in 2022, while adding another memorable chapter to Messi’s illustrious international career.
Argentina will now face Spain in Sunday’s World Cup final after the Spaniards defeated France 2-0 in the other semifinal. England, meanwhile, will take on France in the third-place playoff. LORD
