Argentina Stages Comeback to Reach World Cup Final; Messi Calls Victory Over England 'Special'

2026 World Cup Key News

(Central News Agency, Atlanta, USA, 15th - International Wire Report) Argentine star Lionel Messi led his team to a 2-1 comeback victory over England, securing a spot in the FIFA World Cup final. The 39-year-old legend was the pivotal figure in Argentina's dramatic turnaround.

According to AFP, England opened the scoring through Anthony Gordon. However, Messi delivered a crucial assist in the 85th minute, enabling Enzo Fernandez to equalize with a powerful shot. Moments later, Messi provided a precise cross that Lautaro Martinez headed into the net to take the lead, ultimately defeating England.

Messi described the victory as 'particularly special, especially against England, considering all the historical background.'

Argentina invaded the Falkland Islands in 1982, but the UK regained control after a brief war. This match once again highlighted Argentina's resilience throughout the tournament. In the Round of 16 against Egypt, Argentina trailed 0-2 but eventually reversed the score to win 3-2.

Messi paid tribute to his teammates' never-give-up attitude: 'The way this team has performed has been incredible. This match once again showed our character, resilience, team spirit, and the way we work together. It's truly, truly unbelievable.'

Messi expressed excitement for the final against Spain on the 19th in MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey. The match will see him face the national team of the country where he spent most of his club career, having played for La Liga giants Barcelona for many years.

On Spain, who defeated France 2-0 to reach the final, Messi said: 'They are an outstanding team with many excellent players... They play extremely, extremely well. I know them very well. Their football philosophy and style, built over many years, are highly mature, and I'm very familiar with those players.'

Argentina's head coach Lionel Scaloni noted that England shifted to a defensive approach after taking the lead in the semifinal, giving Argentina an opening.

'I believe this team performs best when facing adversity. It was a very difficult match and a very tough situation... We smelled blood and went all in. That's exactly how I felt,' Scaloni said.

Scaloni emphasized that the victory was a collective effort: 'This team is truly indescribable. It shows team spirit, brotherhood, and the belief to fight until the very end.'

The Argentine coach now has the chance to lead his team to a fourth consecutive major international title, following Copa América victories in 2021 and 2024, the 2022 World Cup, and now standing just one win away from the 2026 World Cup crown. (Translation: Hsu Jui-Cheng) 1150716

Stand with the facts. Your support is the power that protects press freedom.

Download the CNA 'Breaking News' app to stay updated instantly.

Text, images, and videos on this website may not be reproduced, broadcast, or transmitted without authorization.