Messi's teammates knock out England and set up a final match with Spain in the World Cup.

Argentina, the defending champion, turned the tables on England, defeating them 2-1 with two late goals, to reach the final of the 2026 World Cup on Wednesday in Atlanta.

England was on its way to reaching its second final in history, after 1966, when it won its only title, having taken the lead with a goal from Anthony Gordon (55). However, Argentina did it again, as has been the case in their last three matches, turning the game around with goals from Enzo Fernandez (85) and substitute Lautaro Martinez (90+1), following two decisive passes from the captain and all-time World Cup top scorer, Lionel Messi.

Argentina, which has reached its second consecutive final and seventh in its history, in its quest for a fourth title after 1978, 1986, and 2022, will face Spain in the final next Sunday at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Spain had defeated France, the runner-up of the last edition, with a score of 2-0 on Tuesday in Dallas.