Argentine media hail 'miracle' as Messi inspires late comeback to deny England a World Cup final

Argentina are in the World Cup final for the second consecutive time after a stunning late comeback ended England’s hopes of a first final appearance in 60 years, with a 2-1 extra-time victory in Atlanta.

Anthony Gordon had given England the lead in the 55th minute, and the Three Lions appeared to be holding on until Enzo Fernandez equalised in the 85th minute. Lautaro Martinez then struck the winner in extra time, triggering wild celebrations in the stadium and across Argentina. Both goals were created by captain Lionel Messi, who was given licence to roam as England sat deep late in the second half.

While Thursday’s front pages in the United Kingdom were dominated by disappointment, Argentine outlets were united in their euphoria. Buenos Aires daily Clarin ran a photo of Fernandez and Messi celebrating beneath the headline “Miracle of football”, adding the caption “Now for the fourth” — a reference to Argentina’s bid for a fourth World Cup title and second in succession.

La Nacion described the side as “Heroic finalists” and wrote: “Again driven by heart, in seven unforgettable minutes at the end the team turned the match around to beat England 2-1.”

Spanish sports paper Marca, whose country will face Argentina in Sunday’s final, declared it “The most beautiful ending in the world” and called the comeback “madness”. Buenos Aires-based sports daily Olé also led with “madness” and framed its headline as a play on the famous ‘Hand of God’.

Argentina will face European champions Spain in the final on Sunday. England, meanwhile, must contest the third-place play-off against France, who lost 2-0 to Spain in Tuesday’s other semi-final.