Argentina secured a 2-1 victory over England in the 2026 World Cup semi-final on July 15 in Atlanta, advancing to the final against Spain [1, 2, 3, 4]. England opened the scoring in the 55th minute through Anthony Gordon [1]. Argentina equalised late in the 85th minute with a long-range strike from Enzo Fernandez [1]. Substitute Lautaro Martinez scored the winning goal in stoppage time, heading in a cross from Lionel Messi in the 92nd minute [5, 1, 4].

Lionel Messi, now 39, provided two crucial assists in the semi-final to extend his tournament record to 12 assists and 21 goals, making him the all-time top scorer and assist provider at World Cups [4, 6, 7]. Argentina, coached by Lionel Scaloni, reached the World Cup final for the second consecutive time after winning in 2022 [2, 8, 9, 6]. Scaloni praised Messi’s longevity and impact, calling him “a legend” and “the best player in the history of football” [6].

Spain, who remain unbeaten in 37 matches, will face Argentina in the final on July 19 in New Jersey [8, 9, 6, 7, 10]. Spain are considered favourites due to their possession-based style and strong defence, having conceded just one goal during the tournament [8, 9, 10, 11]. In contrast, Argentina have scored the most goals in the World Cup with 19 but have conceded seven and played more minutes due to two extra-time matches [11].

Barcelona’s influence is notable on both teams, with Spain fielding La Masia graduate Lamine Yamal and Argentina led by Messi, a longtime Barcelona legend [8, 9, 12]. Former stars Xavi Hernandez and Javier Mascherano applauded Messi’s skill and endurance, with Xavi calling him “the best in history” and a “warrior” [12]. Mascherano described Messi as “different, totally different,” always surprising fans with his play [12].

Singapore football expert Rhysh Roshan Rai characterised the final as “a battle between control and chaos,” expecting Spain’s dominance in possession to face Argentina’s more dramatic style led by Messi [10].

The World Cup final will take place on July 19, 2026, in New Jersey when Argentina and Spain meet to contest the title [8, 9, 6, 7].