Messi, Argentina Master Late-Game Heroics at World Cup

Lionel Messi and Argentina have dominated the World Cup’s late moments, with the defending champions rallying past England 2-1 in the semifinals after trailing 1-0 late. The win sets up a final against Spain on Sunday, following a tournament pattern of comebacks from knockout-stage deficits. Argentina previously overturned 2-0 and 1-0 late scores to beat Egypt and then England in earlier rounds, with key contributions across stoppage time. The article highlights multiple decisive late-game events, including Messi’s group-stage goals against Austria (90+5) and Jordan (80th), plus the knockout against Cape Verde involving Lisandro Martínez at 92nd and an own goal off a Messi corner in the 111th. It also cites a round-of-16 surge versus Egypt beginning at 79th and a quarterfinal comeback vs Switzerland with Julián Álvarez at 112th and Lautaro Martínez late. Enzo Fernández scored the equalizer at 85th versus England, with Lautaro Martínez netting at stoppage time and Messi assisting.