FIFA World Cup 2026: Engaland Vs Argentina (Img: X)
New Delhi: England thought they have made through but Lionel Messi ended their dream of playing FIFA World Cup 2026.
Thomas Tuchel's game plan was working to perfection and Anthony Gordon's second-half strike had put the Three Lions within touching distance of a first FIFA World Cup final since 1966.
England succeeded in stopping Messi, but they simply could not stop him from controlling the match.
Messi at 39, no longer needs to dominate games through relentless dribbles or spectacular goals. Instead, he rules them with intelligence, patience and impeccable decision-making.
The equaliser came through Enzo Fernandez, who timed his run to perfection before finishing confidently beyond Pickford. Seven minutes later, Lautaro Martinez completed the turnaround after another piece of Messi's vision unlocked England's defence.
Argentina is now one victory away from winning FIFA World Cup the second time in a row.
No nation has successfully defended the FIFA World Cup since Brazil in 1962. Standing between Scaloni's side and history are an unbeaten Spain team with a fabulous march till now throughout the tournament.
Yet Argentina battled into Sunday's final believing they possess something no tactical system can fully account for.
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Not just Lionel Messi. But a squad that has embraced his evolution, learned to shoulder the burden alongside him and repeatedly shown that when the pressure is at its greatest, champions almost always find a way.
Argentina managed to win the match against England due to the excellent performance of Lionel Messi, who led the team to the next FIFA World Cup finals as the current world champion. Argentina took advantage of the conservative approach by England, winning important phases of the game with precise shots and reliable defensive play. Once again, Messi was crucial for his outstanding leadership role, which helped bring La Albiceleste to the final match against Spain for the title.
