Argentina is reborn in the final stretch and returns to the 2026 World Cup final:
According to Vi.
Context
Lionel Messi, who played a crucial role in Argentina's victory, continues to be a central figure in the national team, especially with the 2026 World Cup approaching. His experience and skill are vital for the team, which also features young talents such as Julián Álvarez and Enzo Fernández, who are gaining prominence on the international stage. Messi's performance at this stage of the tournament could influence not only the result of the final, but also his legacy in the history of football.
Why this matters
Argentina's victory over England in the semi-final of the 2026 World Cup is a significant milestone, not only because of the historic rivalry between the two teams, but also because of the way the team managed to turn the situation around in the final moments. Lionel Messi, with two assists, once again demonstrated his importance and influence on the game, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest players in the history of football. Argentina is now preparing to face Spain in the final, in search of another world title.
Main conclusions
- Argentina is reborn in the final stretch and returns to the final of the 2026 World Cup:.
- Argentina eliminates England with a comeback in stoppage time and sets up a meeting with Spain in the 2026 World Cup final; Lionel Messi scores two decisive assists.
- Titelverdediger Argentinië herrijst in slotfase in staat opnieuw in WK-finale.
Argentina is once again in the final of the 2026 World Cup. In a duel of nerves and high intensity in Atlanta, the defending champion turned the score around against England in the final stretch, with Lionel Messi scoring two assists that changed the fate of the semi-final. On Sunday, the Albicelestes will discuss the trophy with Spain. It was the first time that England and Argentina met in the semi-finals of a World Cup. The last confrontation in the final stages dates back to 2002, then in the group stage, with England winning by the smallest margin. In Atlanta, Lionel Scaloni surprised by starting Giuliano Simeone, while on the English side, coach Thomas Tuchel opted for Morgan Rogers on the right, leaving Bukayo Saka and Noni Madueke on the bench. The first half was tight, full of physical duels and interruptions. At the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the rhythm was frequently broken — the Argentine team, in particular, knew how to cool down the game — and referee Ismail Elfath only showed two yellow cards, to Elliot Anderson and Lautaro Martínez, despite the many fouls. The most symptomatic indicator of the block appeared in the statistics: according to Opta, it was the first game of a World Cup (since 1966) without any shot in the first 30 minutes. The first sign of danger came in the 38th minute, when Enzo Fernández shot just wide of the English side's post. After the break, the match opened and the chances multiplied. Julián Álvarez tested Jordan Pickford at the start of the second half, but
the keeper responded competently and saw the reload hit the side mesh. Against the grain, England took the lead in the 55th minute: a tense cross from Jude Bellingham and a precise shot from Anthony Gordon, who made his debut in scoring in the World Cup after leaving Newcastle for Barcelona. The Argentine reaction was immediate. Simeone escaped behind the defense, but Djed Spence stopped him with a monumental cut. Pickford maintained their lead by denying a goal from Nico González's header, before Alexis Mac Allister's header hit the woodwork with a quarter of an hour remaining. The South American insistence paid off in the 86th minute: Messi found Enzo Fernández at the edge of the area and the midfielder put the ball out of Pickford's reach, bringing life back to the world champion. Already in stoppage time, the moment that sealed the turnaround: another brilliant pass from Messi and an impeccable header from Lautaro Martínez, blowing up the Albiceleste bench and ending England's journey towards a first final in six decades. Argentina thus confirms its consecutive presence in a World Cup final and is preparing to face Spain, in a duel of styles and stars. After a painful and pragmatic semi-final, Scaloni's team arrives at the decisive game fueled by the confidence of an epic comeback, with Messi once again playing a decisive role as conductor and assistant.
What happens next
With Argentina one step away from winning the 2026 World Cup, expectations are high for the final against
Spain. Players including Messi, Julián Álvarez and Enzo Fernández will have the opportunity to shine once again on the world stage. The final promises to be an exciting duel, with Argentina trying to defend their title and Spain looking for their first victory in the tournament since 2010.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the semi-final between Argentina and England?
Argentina beat England in the semi-final of the 2026 World Cup, turning the score around in the final stretch of the game with two assists from Lionel Messi.
Who confirmed Argentina's presence in the 2026 World Cup final?
Confirmation of Argentina's presence in the 2026 World Cup final came after the victory against England.
Why is Argentina in the 2026 World Cup final now?
Argentina are in the final of the 2026 World Cup after a thrilling comeback against England in the semi-finals, where they demonstrated great resilience and skill.
What changes occurred in the team lineups during the game?
Lionel Scaloni surprised by starting Giuliano Simeone in Argentina, while Thomas Tuchel opted for Morgan Rogers on the right for England, leaving Bukayo Saka and Noni Madueke on the bench.
What is Argentina's next game at the 2026 World Cup?
Argentina will compete for the trophy against Spain in the 2026 World Cup final.
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