Messi Still Has It: 39-Year-Old Leads Argentina to World Cup Final

Lionel Messi, defying his 39 years, was the architect of Argentina's comeback victory against England, propelling the team to the 2026 World Cup final. Though he did not score in the 2-1 semi-final win at Atlanta Stadium, his two crucial assists were enough to keep the defending champions on course for a second consecutive world title.

Messi expressed the profound significance of the victory, acknowledging the immense importance of the match for the people of Argentina. "This feeling is hard to describe. The whole team feels it because we know this is the match the people of Argentina really wanted to win, and we share the same desire," he said. "Playing England always has a special meaning. This remains a very special match for us."

“

This feeling is hard to describe. The whole team feels it because we know this is the match the people of Argentina really wanted to win, and we share the same desire. Playing England always has a special meaning. This remains a very special match for us.

The win marks Messi's third World Cup final appearance, after 2014 and 2022, positioning him to potentially become only the second player in history, after Cafu, to play in three finals. "Playing in two consecutive finals is something extraordinary. I am grateful to still have the opportunity to enjoy moments like this with Argentina," Messi stated. "When things get tough, we have once again proven that we never stop believing. That spirit is what takes us to the final."

England's coach Thomas Tuchel acknowledged Messi's enduring influence as a decisive factor, while captain Harry Kane noted the superstar's ability to change a game with a single touch. Argentina now has the chance to become the first team to defend the World Cup title since Brazil in 1962. They will face Spain in Sunday's final, with Messi expected to lead their charge for another world championship.

“

Playing in two consecutive finals is something extraordinary. I am grateful to still have the opportunity to enjoy moments like this with Argentina. When things get tough, we have once again proven that we never stop believing. That spirit is what takes us to the final.