Argentina rallies past England 2-1, sets up World Cup final vs Spain

Argentina once again produced a late comeback to defeat England 2-1 in the World Cup semifinal, securing a second consecutive final appearance. Lionel Messi provided two assists in the final minutes to overturn Anthony Gordon's 55th-minute opener. Enzo Fernández equalized in the 85th minute with a powerful strike from distance, and Lautaro Martínez headed the winner in stoppage time.

The match

England took control early but failed to capitalize. Argentina grew into the game after the break, and despite hitting the post twice, they found a way through. Fernández's goal came from a short corner routine with Messi, while Martínez's winner was a precise header from Messi's cross. Source: Clarin The victory extended Argentina's winning streak in the tournament to seven matches. Source: El Dia

Reaction

Messi said, "Venimos siendo los mejores durante estos últimos cuatro años, duela a quien le duela" ("We have been the best for the last four years, no matter who it hurts"). Source: Excelsior Goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez added, "Jugamos con el cuchillo entre los dientes" ("We played with the knife between our teeth"). Source: El Nacional Lautaro Martínez, in tears, dedicated the goal to his mother. Source: El Nacional

What's next

Argentina will face Spain in the final on Sunday at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Spain, the reigning European champions, beat France 2-0 in their semifinal. This will be the first World Cup final between the reigning Copa América and UEFA Euro champions. Source: El Nacional Messi will equal Cafú's record of three World Cup final appearances. Source: El Dia