Argentina Stun England 2-1 in Dramatic Comeback to Reach 2026 World Cup Final

Anthony Gordon appeared to put England on course for their first World Cup final appearance since their sole triumph in 1966, firing his side into the lead ten minutes into the second half. The buildup involved Harry Kane, with the ball eventually reaching Morgan Rogers on the right flank. Rogers delivered a low cross toward the back post, where Gordon got in front of Nahuel Molina to score in front of 68,239 fans at Atlanta Stadium on Wednesday.

For England manager Thomas Tuchel, the prospect of ending a 60-year wait for a World Cup final appearance had seemed within reach. Key figures Jude Bellingham and captain Kane, instrumental throughout the tournament, were unable to influence proceedings as their team ultimately paid the price for sitting back after taking the lead.

Messi Orchestrates Dramatic Late Turnaround

The first half had been a niggly, foul-filled affair with few genuine chances. Elliot Anderson received a booking for a challenge on Messi, reflecting the palpable tension and deep-rooted rivalry between these nations. Argentina's players were visibly motivated not only by their determination to retain the World Cup but also by the significance of the fixture itself.

Argentina had already demonstrated their resilience at this very stadium, having recovered from a 2-0 deficit to defeat Egypt in the round of 16. They applied relentless pressure as the clock ticked down. Jordan Pickford produced an excellent save from a Nico Gonzalez header, and Alexis Mac Allister struck the post in the 76th minute. Fernandez was also denied from distance by Pickford.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 85th minute. Messi found Fernandez on the edge of the area, and the midfielder controlled the pass before unleashing a shot past the goalkeeper. Argentina sensed victory was possible, and Mac Allister again hit the woodwork before England failed to clear their lines. Messi then delivered an exquisite cross for substitute Martinez, who headed home the winner in the second minute of stoppage time, sparking chaotic celebrations and leaving England's players slumped on the turf at full-time.

Historic Final Awaits as Messi Chases More Glory

The 2026 final will be held at New York New Jersey Stadium in New Jersey on Sunday, featuring the reigning champions of South America against European champions Spain. This tournament marks the first 48-team World Cup, and the final represents a meeting of the two continental powerhouses.

Messi, now 39, had never previously faced England and will also be encountering Spain in a competitive match for the first time. His career seemed complete after he led Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar in 2022, but his ambitions clearly remain undiminished. He will become only the second player after Brazilian legend Cafu to appear in three World Cup finals.

No team has successfully retained the World Cup since Brazil in 1962, with Italy being the only other nation to defend the trophy. Argentina's hopes of achieving back-to-back titles remain alive after this remarkable comeback. While the performance may not reach the mythical status of Diego Maradona's legendary display against England in 1986, the two late goals brought Argentina back from the brink.

England, meanwhile, must regroup for Saturday's third-place playoff against France in Miami, a fixture neither side desires. The opportunity to end a six-decade wait for a World Cup final appearance had been tantalizingly close, making the defeat all the more painful.

This semifinal will be remembered as one of the great World Cup encounters between these two footballing nations. What did you make of Argentina's stunning comeback, and who do you fancy in the final between the champions of South America and Europe? Share this article and join the conversation about one of the most dramatic World Cup nights in recent memory.

Source: Al Jazeera English