Lionel Messi once again proved why he is regarded as one of football's greatest-ever players, producing a masterclass as Argentina came from behind to defeat England 2-1 and book their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
The 39-year-old captain did not get on the scoresheet himself, but his influence was immense as he provided two assists and orchestrated Argentina's comeback victory. The reigning champions will now face Spain in what promises to be a dream final featuring Messi against teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
Match Summary: Messi Inspires Argentina's Comeback
Lionel Messi once again delivered on the biggest stage as Argentina fought back to beat England 2-1 and reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup final. After a tense and physical first half, England took the lead through Anthony Gordon early in the second period and looked set for a famous victory. However, Messi changed the game with his brilliance. The 39-year-old created Argentina's equaliser for Enzo Fernández in the 85th minute before producing another moment of magic in stoppage time, setting up Lautaro Martínez's winning goal.
Messi registered both of Argentina's assists in the game, tormenting England's defense in a vintage display. Argentina's dramatic comeback sends the defending champions into another World Cup equalizer, where Messi will lead his side against Spain in a blockbuster showdown.
Messi Breaks Historic World Cup Records
The Argentina captain's display saw him rewrite the history books yet again.
Most Goal Contributions in World Cup History
- 33 – Lionel Messi
- 25 – Kylian Mbappé
Messi now has an incredible 33 goals and assists combined at the FIFA World Cup, eight more than second-placed Kylian Mbappé.
First Player to Achieve Unique Knockout Feat
Messi became the first player since records began in 1966 to complete nine dribbles and provide two assists in a single World Cup knockout match.
Most Assists in World Cup History
The two assists against England took Messi's tally to 12 assists in World Cup matches, with an astonishing 10 of those coming in knockout rounds. No other player since 1966 has managed more than eight assists in total at the tournament.
Another Incredible Career Streak
Messi also extended another remarkable record. He has now scored or assisted in 13 consecutive matches for club and country.
At 39 years old, it is the second-longest goal contribution streak of his legendary career, surpassed only by his 14-game run back in 2011.
One Final Mission for Messi
After guiding Argentina into another World Cup final, Messi now stands just one win away from adding a second World Cup title to his glittering career.
The stage is perfectly set for a blockbuster showdown against Spain, where the Argentine icon will come face-to-face with one of football's brightest young stars, Lamine Yamal. It could be the ultimate passing-of-the-torch moment, or another chapter in Lionel Messi's never-ending fairytale.
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