Argentina produced a dramatic late comeback to defeat England 2-1 on Wednesday and secure a place in the FIFA World Cup final. Lionel Messi inspired the turnaround by creating both goals during the closing minutes of a thrilling semi-final.
England looked set to reach their first World Cup final since 1966 after Anthony Gordon gave the Three Lions the lead in the second half. However, Argentina mounted relentless pressure and scored twice within the final seven minutes to complete a memorable victory.
The breakthrough for England came in the 55th minute. Nicolas Tagliafico’s attempted clearance fell to Declan Rice, who quickly released Morgan Rogers with a precise pass. Rogers then delivered a cross into the penalty area, where Gordon calmly guided the ball past goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.
Despite taking the lead, England gradually retreated into their own half. Consequently, Argentina dominated possession and created several dangerous opportunities as the clock ticked down.
The equaliser finally arrived in the 85th minute. Messi found Enzo Fernandez in space outside the penalty area, and the midfielder struck a powerful shot into the corner beyond Jordan Pickford to level the score.
Argentina completed the comeback in stoppage time. Alexis Mac Allister’s effort struck the post before Messi recovered the loose ball on the right flank. He then delivered an excellent cross for substitute Lautaro Martinez, who headed home the winning goal in the 92nd minute.
The victory added another memorable chapter to the historic rivalry between Argentina and England. Furthermore, it kept alive Argentina’s hopes of lifting another World Cup trophy while extending Messi’s remarkable international career.
For the 39-year-old captain, the match carried special significance because it is widely expected to be his final World Cup appearance. Meanwhile, England suffered heartbreaking disappointment after matching Argentina for much of the contest but failing to withstand the late pressure.
Argentina will now face Spain in Sunday’s World Cup final after the European champions defeated France 2-0 in the other semi-final.
