Argentina's Incredible Comeback Breaks England Hearts to Reach World Cup Final

England were minutes away from their first World Cup final since 1966, but Argentina produced a dramatic late comeback to win 2-1 and book another shot at football's biggest prize.

Hossain/July 16, 2026/5 min read

Argentina refused to give up.

For much of the second half, it looked like England were on course for a place in the World Cup Final after Anthony Gordon's opener. But with Lionel Messi pulling the strings once again, the defending champions produced another remarkable late comeback to win 2-1 in Atlanta and keep their title defence alive.

Messi was once again the difference-maker.

The 39-year-old captain provided two late assists, first finding Enzo Fernández for the equaliser before setting up Lautaro Martínez, whose stoppage-time finish completed one of Argentina's biggest comebacks of the tournament.

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Argentina fans are celebrating all over the world after the comeback. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni praised the mentality of his players after reaching another World Cup Final.

"This team has shown once again that when things get difficult, they respond."
Lionel Scaloni

Captain Lionel Messi also reflected on another dramatic night for the reigning champions.

"There are so many emotions. I've experienced so many things on this field. It's always a joy to play in Argentina with our people behind us."
Lionel Messi

Argentina have now reached back-to-back World Cup finals and will face Spain with the chance to defend the title they won four years ago. After another comeback built on belief and Messi's brilliance, the reigning champions are just one victory away from making history.