Lionel Messi inspired Argentina to a dramatic 2-1 victory over England in the World Cup semi-final on Wednesday, sending the defending champions into the final against Spain.
Anthony Gordon had given England a second-half lead, but late strikes from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez turned the match on its head in a thrilling finish at Atlanta Stadium.
The win extends Argentina’s remarkable run of come-from-behind triumphs in the knockout stages.
Messi’s influence was pivotal as Argentina mounted a relentless late assault, with the veteran playmaker involved in the build-up to the equaliser and winner.
The result sets up a mouth-watering final clash with Spain.
England, despite a resilient display, were left heartbroken as their World Cup journey ended in familiar fashion against Argentina. The match lived up to its billing as one of the tournament’s most intense encounters.
