Argentina to face Spain in World Cup final
Argentina will defend its World Cup title against Spain after both sides secured semifinal victories in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The defending champions came from behind to defeat England 2-1 in Atlanta, with Lionel Messi providing two late assists to send Argentina into a second consecutive World Cup final.
England took the lead in the 55th minute through Anthony Gordon, but Argentina responded in the closing stages. Enzo Fernández equalized in the 85th minute after being set up by Messi, before Lautaro Martínez headed home the winner in stoppage time from another cross by the Argentine captain.
Messi remained on eight goals in the tournament but strengthened his position in the Golden Boot race by taking his assist tally to three. The 39-year-old will appear in his third World Cup final as Argentina seeks to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the trophy.
Spain booked its place in the final with a 2-0 victory over France in Dallas.
Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 22nd minute after Lamine Yamal was fouled inside the area. Pedro Porro doubled Spain's advantage in the 58th minute after combining with Dani Olmo, sealing a composed performance by La Roja.
Spain controlled much of the match and limited France's attacking threat to secure its place in the final.
Final set for Sunday
Argentina and Spain will meet in the World Cup final on Sunday in New York, while England and France will face each other in Saturday's third-place playoff.
