England vs Argentina HIGHLIGHTS FIFA World Cup SF: Messi inspires ARG to the final with late 2-1 win | FIFA World Cup 2026

Lionel Messi once again proved why he remains Argentina’s talisman, producing two decisive assists as the defending champions came from behind to beat England 2-1 in a dramatic FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal in Atlanta and book their place in a second successive World Cup final.

The first half lived up to the billing of one of international football’s fiercest rivalries. Both teams flew into challenges from the opening whistle, with Argentina repeatedly committing fouls to disrupt England’s rhythm. Referee Ismail Elfath had his hands full early, issuing warnings before eventually booking Elliot Anderson for a foul on Messi and Lisandro Martinez for bringing down Morgan Rogers.

Despite the heated atmosphere, clear-cut chances were scarce. England enjoyed more possession and looked the more composed side, with Jude Bellingham earning dangerous free-kicks and John Stones heading over from one of them. Argentina threatened mainly from set-pieces, while both goalkeepers remained largely untested as the teams went into the break locked at 0-0.

England finally broke the deadlock in the 55th minute. Cristian Romero switched off defensively, allowing Anthony Gordon to ghost in behind and tap home from close range, sending the England supporters into celebration.

Argentina responded by throwing bodies forward. Lionel Scaloni introduced Nico Gonzalez before later making a triple substitution, bringing on Gonzalo Montiel, Rodrigo De Paul and Nicolas Otamendi in a bid to inject fresh energy. England defended resolutely, with Jordan Pickford making an outstanding reaction save from close range after a dangerous Messi delivery, while Djed Spence produced a crucial last-ditch tackle to deny Giuliano Simeone.

The pressure eventually told. In the 85th minute, Messi found Enzo Fernandez on the edge of the area, and the midfielder unleashed a stunning long-range strike beyond Pickford to level the contest.

Nine minutes of stoppage time set up a dramatic finale. After John Stones required treatment, Argentina continued to pile forward and found the winner in the second added minute. Messi produced another moment of brilliance, delivering a perfectly weighted cross for Lautaro Martinez, who powered a header beyond Pickford to complete another remarkable comeback.

England pushed desperately for an equaliser in the closing moments but Argentina held firm to seal a famous victory.

Having survived scares against Egypt, Switzerland and now England, Scaloni’s side have once again found a way through adversity. Argentina will now face European champions Spain in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, with Messi’s dream of leading his nation to consecutive world titles still very much alive.