ATLANTA — Defending champions Argentina secured a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over England at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium today, booking their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final thanks to two late assists from captain Lionel Messi.

The highly anticipated semifinal clash between the historic rivals lived up to the hype. After a scoreless first half, England broke the deadlock in the 55th minute when forward Anthony Gordon calmly tapped in a low cross at the far post, putting the Three Lions ahead 1-0 and leaving Argentina on the back foot.

However, the reigning champions refused to back down. In the 85th minute, Messi set up Enzo Fernández, who clinical finished to level the score at 1-1.

Just as the match seemed destined for extra time, magic struck in the second minute of stoppage time (90+2'). Messi delivered another masterclass pass to substitute Lautaro Martínez, who fired home the dramatic match-winner to seal a sensational comeback.

With this victory, Argentina advances to their seventh World Cup final, where they will face Spain on Sunday, July 19, at MetLife Stadium in a bid to defend their crown. England will head to Miami to face France in the third-place play-off on Saturday, July 18.