Substitute Lautaro Martinez delivered a moment of pure drama to fire Argentina into the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, heading home a Lionel Messi cross deep into stoppage time to eliminate England.

The decisive goal arrived in the 92nd minute, with Martinez arriving at precisely the right moment to meet Messi's delivery and send it into the net, leaving England with nothing to show from the semifinal encounter.

Messi, orchestrating play until the very end, provided the assist that proved decisive — a fitting contribution from the Argentine captain as his side secured a place in the showpiece final.

England, who had battled through the semifinal, were denied at the last by Martinez's header, and must now regroup after an agonising exit at the final hurdle before the ultimate prize.

Argentina will now prepare to contest the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, with Messi and his teammates one step away from lifting the trophy once again.