In a nail-biting finish in Atlanta, Argentina qualified for the 2026 World Cup final with a 2-1 victory over England. Trailing in the match, Lionel Messi's Albiceleste rallied in the dying moments. This Sunday, July 19, they will attempt to secure their fourth title against Spain, while England will play France for third place this Saturday.

A first period locked down by tension

Forty years after Maradona's legendary "Hand of God" and twenty-four years after David Beckham's crucial penalty, this classic of world football promised to be electrifying. Yet, the first half was marked primarily by caution and physicality:

1. A disjointed game: No fewer than 19 fouls were committed during the first 45 minutes.
2. Sterile domination: Although often camped in the Argentinian half, the English were sorely lacking in precision in the final pass.
3. Few opportunities: Only an off-target shot from Enzo Fernández (38th minute) and a blocked attempt by Lionel Messi sent a shiver through the Three Lions ' defence.
4. Half-time scoreline: A goalless draw (0-0) with not a single shot on target from either side.

The English cold snap, then the Argentine revolt

The match truly exploded into life after the break. Following an initial warning shot from Julian Álvarez, saved by Jordan Pickford (47th minute), it was the English side who broke the deadlock:

55th minute: On a quick transition, Morgan Rogers delivers a perfect cross for Anthony Gordon , who beats the Argentinian goalkeeper with a close-range shot (1-0).

With their backs against the wall, Argentina relied on their experienced players and their captain, Lionel Messi (39 years old). Despite a goalless match for the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner, his influence remained absolute. Against the Argentine onslaught, Pickford held out for a long time, notably saving a glancing header from Nico González (69th minute).

A stunning final

England sat back too much at the end of the match and eventually cracked under pressure:

1. The equalizer (86th): Taking advantage of a moment of hesitation in the English defense, Enzo Fernández beats Pickford with a precise shot into the bottom left corner (1-1).
2. The coup de grâce (90th+2): In added time, Lionel Messi delivers a pinpoint cross for Lautaro Martínez , who has just come on as a substitute, who heads the ball into the back of the net (2-1).

In the space of a few minutes, Argentina completely turned the game around, punishing England's lack of attacking ambition in the second half. The quest for a second star ends here for Harry Kane and his teammates, while Messi's Argentina is now just one step away from a historic double.