Argentina reached the World Cup final on Wednesday, July 16th, 2026, after a dramatic 2-1 victory against England in Atlanta. England took the lead at the 55th minute with a goal from Anthony Gordon. However, Argentina staged a late comeback with Enzo Fernandez equalizing in the 85th minute, assisted by Lionel Messi. Lautaro Martinez then scored the winning goal in stoppage time at 90+2 minutes. Martinez said, "I told him that I was going to come on and I was going to win it."

England captain Harry Kane acknowledged the team's effort, stating, "We worked so hard to be here."

The defending champions Argentina, who have previously won the World Cup in 1978, 1986, and most recently in 2022 against France, will face Spain in the final. Spain secured their place by defeating France on Tuesday. The final is scheduled for Sunday, July 20th, 2026, in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

England goalkeeper Jordon Pickford made several vital saves during the match, and Argentina's Mac Allister hit a header off the post amid relentless attacks. Thomas Tuchel commented on the match dynamics, saying, "Argentina played with more risk, played with more rhythm, played with the feeling maybe that they have nothing to lose anymore, which freed them up and held us back because we played suddenly with a feeling that we have a lot to lose."

Sources