Argentina Stuns England to Reach 2026 World Cup Final Against Spain
Argentina is on its way back to the FIFA World Cup final after a thrilling semifinal against England on Wednesday. Facing pressure, the team scored twice in five minutes to shock England and earn a place in the 2026 final versus Spain. The soccer community erupted online following this dramatic comeback.
Enzo Fernandez leveled the score for Argentina in the 85th minute, and Lautaro Martinez clinched the victory with a stoppage-time goal, both assisted by Lionel Messi. This performance highlighted Messi's impact once again.
Social Media Buzzes With Praise
- @FOXSports tweeted, “MESSI SENDS IT INTO TO LAUTARO MARTÍNEZ AND ARGENTINA TAKES THE LEAD IN STOPPAGE TIME.”
- @TelemundoSports exclaimed, “¡¡¡GOOOOOOOOOOOOOL FROM ARGENTINAAAAAA!!! ¡¡¡GOOOOOOL IN THE FINAL MINUTES!!! Lautaro Martínez heads it into the net inside the box after an assist from Lionel Messi. The champion will defend its crown… ¡Argentina’s comeback! ¡1-2 over England!”
- @ESPNFC noted Messi’s effort: “Messi ran 5.2 miles vs. England. That is the most he’s run in a match this World Cup that didn’t go to extra time. Left it all out on the field.”
- @OptaJoe shared a rare stat: “9 & 2 – Lionel Messi completed nine dribbles and assisted two goals against England – the first player on record (from 1966) to do so in a single FIFA World Cup knockout game.”
A Historic World Cup Final Awaits
The final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, will see Argentina take on Spain. Argentina, led by Messi, aims to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to win back-to-back World Cups.
Spain arrives undefeated, driven by young star Lamine Yamal and coached by Luis de la Fuente, relying on disciplined possession play. Argentina’s style contrasts with aggressive offense and late scoring surges, as shown in their recent matches.
This clash pits two powerhouse teams with distinct styles and generations against each other, promising an unforgettable finale to the largest FIFA World Cup ever held.
