Argentina Stuns England with Last-Minute Comeback to Reach World Cup Final

Argentina secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over England in the World Cup semifinal, overturning a 1-0 deficit with goals in the 85th minute and stoppage time. Lionel Messi provided two assists, setting up Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez. The win sends Argentina to the final against Spain. Source: clarin, infobae

The Comeback

England took the lead through Anthony Gordon in the 54th minute. Argentina pressed relentlessly, and Messi's corner found Fernández, who equalized with a powerful shot. In the 90+3', Martínez headed home the winner from another Messi assist. Source: excelsiormx, lavanguardia The victory was Argentina's third comeback in the tournament.

Post-Match Incidents

After the match, Jude Bellingham struck Valentín Barco on the head during Argentine celebrations, sparking a brief altercation. Source: excelsiormx, lavanguardia Meanwhile, Argentine players discovered goalkeeper Jordan Pickford's water bottle with detailed penalty notes, including instructions on Messi's tendencies. Messi joked, "Habrá visto los penales entonces." Source: clarin, lavanguardia Additionally, players displayed a banner reading "Las Malvinas son argentinas", prompting British officials to call for a FIFA investigation. Source: elmundoes, elcaribedr

Reactions

Messi dedicated the win to Diego Maradona, saying "seguramente el Diego desde arriba lo está disfrutando muchísimo." Source: infobae Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni praised his team's resilience, while England's Thomas Tuchel faced criticism for defensive tactics. Source: abces The Telegraph listed 31 "tricks" used by Argentina, accusing them of gamesmanship, though other outlets highlighted Argentina's merit. Source: lavozar