Argentina Rally Past England to Reach World Cup Final

Defending champions Argentina staged a dramatic late comeback to beat England 2-1 on Wednesday, booking their place in a second consecutive FIFA World Cup final.

After a closely contested first half, England took the lead in the 55th minute when Anthony Gordon found the back of the net, giving the Three Lions a deserved advantage.

Argentina responded strongly and piled on the pressure in the closing stages. Midfielder Enzo Fernández restored parity in the 85th minute with a superb long-range strike, setting up a thrilling finish.

Deep into stoppage time, captain Lionel Messi delivered a pinpoint cross that Lautaro Martínez headed home, completing a remarkable comeback and sealing a 2-1 victory for the reigning champions.

The win sends Argentina into a second straight World Cup final, where they will face Spain, who secured their place by defeating France 2-0 in Tuesday's semifinal.

Argentina now have the chance to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the FIFA World Cup title.

At 39, Messi once again played a decisive role, providing the assist for the winning goal as Argentina moved within one victory of another historic triumph.

The final promises to be a blockbuster clash between two of world football's traditional powerhouses, with both sides aiming to lift the game's most prestigious trophy.