Argentina secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over England in the World Cup semifinal on Wednesday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, setting up a final clash with European champions Spain. The reigning world champions staged a remarkable late comeback, overturning a first-half deficit with two goals in the final ten minutes, both assisted by Lionel Messi.

England took the lead in the 55th minute through Anthony Gordon, who capitalized on a cross from Morgan Rogers to head in at the back post. After going ahead, England adopted a defensive posture, seeking to withstand Argentina’s pressure for the remainder of the match. The tactic initially appeared effective as England maintained control, relying on key players such as captain Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham.

However, Argentina’s persistence paid off late in the game. In the 85th minute, Enzo Fernandez equalized with a powerful strike from the edge of the area after controlling a Messi pass. Just as regulation time was drawing to a close, substitute Lautaro Martinez headed in the winner off another Messi cross in stoppage time. The goals sparked euphoric celebrations from Argentina and stunned the English side, who had been aiming to reach their first World Cup final since their 1966 triumph.

Messi, playing against England for the first time at an international tournament, was central to the comeback. At 39, the Barcelona icon continues to influence matches with his vision and intelligence on the field. His two assists extended his record as the all-time World Cup top scorer to 21 goals and will make him only the second player after Cafu to appear in three World Cup finals. The upcoming final in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on Sunday marks what is expected to be Messi’s last World Cup appearance.

England’s head coach Thomas Tuchel acknowledged the team’s failure to maintain their lead, stating that England could not keep possession or win crucial balls in the closing stages. The defensive shift after scoring was criticized as it allowed Argentina to dominate possession, which reached 88% in the final half-hour. Despite strong defensive efforts, including several key saves from goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, England ultimately succumbed to the relentless pressure.

The match carried additional historical and emotional significance due to the long-standing football rivalry between Argentina and England, recalling past encounters marked by iconic moments such as Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” goal in 1986 and political tensions surrounding the 1982 Falklands War. Argentine players displayed a banner referencing the disputed Falkland Islands, adding to the charged atmosphere.

Argentina’s coach Lionel Scaloni praised his squad’s resilience and mental toughness, noting their continued ability to mount late comebacks throughout the tournament. The final against Spain will pit Argentina’s experienced leaders, led by Messi, against a youthful Spanish side featuring emerging talents like Lamine Yamal in a high-profile showdown.

Meanwhile, England will contest the third-place playoff against France on Saturday in Miami, seeking consolation after falling just short of a first final appearance in six decades. The team’s performance throughout the tournament featured significant contributions from many players, though the semifinal exit will be remembered as a missed opportunity.