Lionel Messi, at 39 years old, has once again guided Argentina to the World Cup final, four years after many believed his international career was ending. In the semi-final against England in Atlanta, Messi delivered two crucial assists in a 2-1 comeback victory. Despite England taking a 55th-minute lead through Anthony Gordon, Argentina, spurred by Messi, mounted a dramatic late surge. Messi moved to the right wing, where he completed nine dribbles and created four chances, setting up Enzo Fernandez for an 85th-minute equalizer and Lautaro Martinez for an injury-time winner.
This performance further cements Messi's legacy, with manager Lionel Scaloni calling him the "best player in history." Messi is now the joint top scorer in the 2026 World Cup with eight goals and the second-highest assister with four. He also became the all-time leading World Cup scorer with 21 goals. Argentina will face Spain in the final in New Jersey, aiming to become the first team to retain the World Cup trophy since Brazil in 1962 and Messi to become only the second player to appear in three World Cup finals.
Messi's impact was evident not just in his direct contributions but also in the shift in play. After England went ahead, Argentina maintained 88% possession for the subsequent 37 minutes, demonstrating their dominance once Messi found his rhythm on the wing. England captain Harry Kane acknowledged Messi's enduring danger, stating, "He's one of the best players ever for a reason." This victory in Atlanta marked Argentina's second comeback win in the tournament, highlighting their resilience and Messi's continued influence.
