Lionel Messi has propelled Argentina to the World Cup final for the third time in his career, following a thrilling 2-1 semi-final victory against England. The 39-year-old captain played a pivotal role in the match, providing two late assists that helped the defending champions overcome a one-goal deficit in Atlanta.

Messi's Late Heroics

Argentina found themselves trailing after Anthony Gordon scored for England, but Messi's brilliance shone through in the closing minutes. He assisted Enzo Fernandez for the equaliser and then delivered a precise cross that Lautaro Martínez headed in for the winner. Despite not scoring himself, Messi's contributions were crucial in securing Argentina's place in the final against Spain.

A Special Moment for Messi

After the match, Messi expressed his emotions, stating, "These are special feelings. I think the squad could feel it and this was a game the Argentine people really wanted to win, and so did we." This encounter marked Messi's first competitive match against England, adding to the significance of the victory. While he did not replicate Diego Maradona's legendary performance from the 1986 World Cup, Messi's two assists were vital in the team's success.

With this win, Argentina continues its impressive record of never losing a World Cup semi-final. Messi is set to appear in his second consecutive final and third overall, aiming to help Argentina become the first team to retain the World Cup since Brazil in 1962. Reflecting on the achievement, he remarked, "It is crazy to be playing in back-to-back finals." As the only remaining player from the squad that lost to Germany in 2014, Messi's experience will be invaluable as Argentina seeks to defend its title.