Argentina secures place in 2026 World Cup final after dramatic semi win

Argentina defeated England 2-1 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal. Enzo Fernández scored the equaliser in the 85th minute, and Lautaro Martínez netted the winning goal shortly after, sending the South Americans to the final in New York.

Martínez’s performances have raised his market valuation, with Inter now estimating his transfer fee at a minimum of €120 million. The tournament also saw a tactical shift, as FIFA’s Technical Study Group reported that 16% of all goals came from outside the penalty box – double the rate in Qatar 2022 – with Argentina leading the tally with five long‑range strikes.

Despite Fernández’s heroics, Real Madrid reiterated that they have made no formal approach for the midfielder. The upcoming final pits Argentina against defending European champions Spain at MetLife Stadium, with Martínez and teammate Nico Paz expected to start on the bench. Lionel Messi, aiming for a second consecutive World Cup, remains a central figure, sparking renewed debate over his place in football history.