Messi becomes oldest non-goalkeeper in World Cup semifinal, leads Argentina to final
Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Lionel Messi, at 39 years and 21 days old, became the oldest non-goalkeeper to play in a World Cup semifinal.
- Messi provided two assists, leading Argentina to a 2-1 victory over England and securing a spot in his third career World Cup final.
- Argentina will face Spain in the final, with Messi aiming to win his second World Cup title.
Lionel Messi continues to defy age and expectations, etching his name further into football history. At 39 years and 21 days, the Argentine superstar became the oldest non-goalkeeper to feature in a World Cup semifinal during his team's clash against England.
Messi's influence was undeniable, even without scoring a goal himself. He delivered two crucial assists in the dramatic 2-1 comeback victory. In the 85th minute, he set up Enzo Fernรกndez for a long-range strike, and in injury time, he provided the pass for Lautaro Martรญnez's winning header. This performance propelled Argentina past England and into their third World Cup final.
With this win, Messi has now reached the World Cup final for the third time in his illustrious career. He previously lost the 2014 final to Germany and won the 2022 final against France. Argentina is set to face Spain in the upcoming final, where Messi will have the opportunity to secure his second World Cup trophy and add to his legendary status.
He provided two assists, leading Argentina to a 2-1 victory over England and securing a spot in his third career World Cup final.
Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.