Argentina’s Late Surge Breaks England Hearts and Seals World Cup Final Place

For much of Wednesday night in Atlanta, England appeared to have successfully contained Lionel Messi, frustrated Argentina and placed themselves within minutes of a first FIFA World Cup final since 1966. Then the defending champions transformed the match. Enzo Fernández equalised in the 85th minute before substitute Lautaro Martínez headed home a stoppage-time winner, completing a dramatic 2-1 comeback that sent Argentina into the World Cup final against Spain. Anthony Gordon’s 55th-minute goal had given England a deserved advantage and offered Thomas Tuchel’s side a genuine opportunity to end decades of tournament disappointment. But England gradually surrendered possession and territory after taking the lead, allowing Argentina to establish themselves around Jordan Pickford’s penalty area. Messi, who had been closely controlled for most of the contest, created both late goals from the right side. His intervention turned an otherwise restrained performance into another decisive contribution on football’s largest stage. The final whistle produced two contrasting scenes. Argentina’s players celebrated in front of a vast sky-blue-and-white support, while England’s team remained on…