The 2026 FIFA World Cup delivered another dramatic chapter as the Argentina national team edged past England 2-1 in a fiercely contested semifinal, securing their spot in the final this Sunday. The match, played at MetLife Stadium in New York, saw the Albiceleste overturn a late deficit with two late goals, all orchestrated by their captain, Lionel Messi.
Messi’s magic turns the tide
The first half was a physical showdown, with 19 fouls whistled by referee Ismaïl Elfath and a meager 0.07 expected goals tally for both sides. England dominated possession early, but Argentina’s tactical discipline frustrated their attacks. After the break, the game shifted dramatically.
Julian Alvarez broke the deadlock with a first-half effort saved by Jordan Pickford (47′), only for Anthony Gordon to equalize for England (55′). But it was Messi who stole the spotlight, delivering two crucial assists in stoppage time—first to Enzo Fernandez (85′) and then to Lautaro Martinez (90′ + 2′)—to seal an unforgettable victory.
France vs. England for third place
Disappointed but resilient, England will now face France in the third-place playoff this Saturday in Miami. While neither side will be fully satisfied with this consolation match, it promises a high-stakes encounter between two historic rivals. The last meeting between these teams ended in a dramatic World Cup quarterfinal victory for France in 2022, with goals from Aurélien Tchouaméni and Olivier Giroud.
The semifinal clash between Argentina and England was a clash of styles—brutality versus flair—but it was Messi’s genius that ultimately decided the fate of the match. Now, the stage is set for a final showdown against Spain, as Argentina eyes back-to-back World Cup titles.
