July 15, 2026 / 5:08 PM EDT
/ CBS/AP
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One of the most bitter rivalries in international soccer wrote a new chapter in its contentious series Wednesday, when defending World Cup champions Argentina rallied to edge England 2-1 to advance to Sunday's final at MetLife Stadium, where they will face Spain.In a chippy, tense matchup that was less about free-flowing soccer and more a war of attrition, a 55th-minute moment of brilliance from left winger Anthony Gordon, who chipped in a cross from Morgan Rogers, gave England the lead.But as they have so many times in this tournament, La Albiceleste mounted a comeback, first thanks to a stunning 85th-minute strike from just outside the penalty area by midfielder Enzo Fernandez, then a stoppage-time header from substitute Lautaro Martinez, assisted by none other than legendary striker Lionel Messi, to permanently give Argentina the lead.Messi is seeking to lead Argentina to a second consecutive World Cup title. His eight goals remain tied for the most in this tournament. The 39-year-old is one of only two players, the other being Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo, to play in six men's World Cups.
Lautaro Martinez scores the second goal for Argentina during the FIFA World Cup semifinal against England at Atlanta Stadium on July 15, 2026, in Atlanta, Georgia.
