Argentina Rally Past England to Reach World Cup Final Against Spain

ATLANTA: Defending champions Argentina staged a dramatic late comeback to defeat England 2-1 in the FIFA World Cup semi-final, booking their place in Sunday’s final against Spain in a thrilling encounter at Atlanta Stadium.

England broke the deadlock in the 55th minute when Anthony Gordon scored to put the Three Lions on course for their first World Cup final since 1966. However, Argentina mounted relentless pressure in the closing stages, with Enzo Fernández equalising in the 85th minute after a pass from Lionel Messi.

The reigning champions completed the turnaround in stoppage time as substitute Lautaro Martínez headed home Messi’s cross in the 92nd minute, sealing a memorable victory and extending Argentina’s unbeaten run in the tournament.

Messi, 39, played a decisive role by providing assists for both goals as Argentina advanced to a second consecutive World Cup final. The victory keeps alive their bid to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to retain the FIFA World Cup title.

England, managed by Thomas Tuchel, were left heartbroken after controlling large portions of the match before conceding twice in the closing minutes. The Three Lions will now face France in the third-place playoff, while Argentina will meet Spain in a blockbuster final on July 19 in New Jersey.