Lionel Messi created two goals in the closing minutes as Argentina overturned a 1-0 deficit to beat England 2-1 in Atlanta and advance to the 2026 World Cup final.
Enzo Fernandez equalized with a long-range effort in the 85th minute after receiving Messi's pass. In the second minute of stoppage time, Messi then delivered a precise cross that substitute Lautaro Martinez headed into the net.
The dramatic finish sent the defending champions into Sunday's final against Spain in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Anthony Gordon gives England the lead
A tense, goalless first half produced no clear chances and was repeatedly interrupted by fouls. Leandro Paredes challenged Jude Bellingham late early in the match, and Fernandez soon did the same to Elliot Anderson.
The contest opened up after the break. Jordan Pickford denied Julian Alvarez before Anthony Gordon put England ahead in the 55th minute, converting a cross from Morgan Rogers.
England had other opportunities but could not add another goal. Argentina increased the pressure, with substitute Nico Gonzalez stopped by Pickford and Alexis Mac Allister heading against the post.
Messi creates both late goals
Argentina still trailed entering the final five minutes of regulation, but Messi found Fernandez for the equalizer. The captain then supplied Martinez with the stoppage-time cross that completed the comeback.
After another match that pushed Argentina to the closing moments, Messi dropped to his knees in celebration. The victory continued a demanding run through the expanded 48-team tournament after earlier scares against Cape Verde and Egypt.
Argentina move one win from history
Argentina are now one victory from becoming the first nation since Brazil in 1958 and 1962 to win consecutive World Cups.
The semifinal also renewed one of international soccer's biggest rivalries. Supporters created a loud atmosphere before kickoff as each group tried to drown out the opposing national anthem, and that intensity carried onto the field.
Spain now stands between Argentina and a successful title defense. Messi's two late assists ensured the champions will have the opportunity to make history in the final.