Lautaro Martínez scores decisive goal to send Argentina to World Cup 2026 final

Argentina defeated England 2‑1 in the World Cup 2026 semifinal in Atlanta, with Lautaro Martínez heading the winning goal in the 90+2 minute. The strike secured the Albiceleste’s place in the final against Spain and was described by Martínez as "the goal I always dreamed of" after recalling his father’s first pair of boots.

Martínez, who entered the match in the second half, said the moment was emotional and dedicated the goal to his family, especially his mother and his children. Media reports highlighted his family’s football lineage, noting his father Mario’s career as a professional player.

Goalkeeper Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez re‑emerged in headlines for a past promise that he would retire from the national team if Argentina won two consecutive World Cups. The statement resurfaced after the semifinal win, reminding fans of his earlier pledge.

In Brazil, the match generated record TV ratings, with SBT topping the audience charts in multiple cities, reaching as high as 11 points in Fortaleza and 6.19 points in São Paulo, underscoring the broad regional interest in Argentina’s progress.