Lionel Messi delivered another defining moment on the world stage, inspiring Argentina to a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over England in their FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final in Atlanta on Wednesday. The reigning champions will now face Spain, the European champions, in the final.

England had looked destined for their first World Cup final since 1966 when Anthony Gordon put them ahead in the 55th minute, scoring 10 minutes into the second half before a crowd of 68,239 at the Atlanta venue.

England sit back and pay the price

After taking the lead, England retreated into a defensive shell, and Argentina seized on the invitation. Wave after wave of Argentine attacks eventually broke through with less than 10 minutes remaining on the clock.

Messi played a key role in both goals. He first set up Enzo Fernandez, who steadied himself before drilling the ball into the far corner in the 85th minute to level at 1-1.

Messi's cross seals it in stoppage time

With the match seemingly heading for extra time, Messi took matters into his own hands in the 93rd minute. He beat his marker on the left flank and whipped in a precise cross that substitute Lautaro Martinez headed home from close range — sending Argentina into the final and ending England's dreams of a first World Cup triumph in 60 years.