Argentina Victory became reality on Wednesday as Argentina staged a dramatic late comeback to defeat England 2-1 and book its place in the FIFA World Cup final with two goals in the closing seven minutes.

The semifinal remained goalless at half-time despite both teams creating several early chances.

England took the lead in the 55th minute after Nicolas Tagliafico failed to clear the ball. Declan Rice collected the loose ball and found Morgan Rogers, whose cross allowed Anthony Gordon to steer the ball into the net, giving England hope of reaching its first World Cup final since 1966.

Argentina increased the pressure as England dropped deeper to defend its lead, creating a series of chances in search of an equaliser.

The breakthrough came in the 85th minute when Lionel Messi spotted Enzo Fernandez in space near the edge of the penalty area. Fernandez fired a powerful shot beyond goalkeeper Jordan Pickford to level the match.

Argentina completed its comeback in stoppage time. Alexis Mac Allister struck the post before Messi gathered the rebound and delivered a precise cross for substitute Lautaro Martínez, who headed home the winner in the 92nd minute.

Martínez, who came on in the 81st minute, made an immediate impact by scoring the decisive goal in one of football’s fiercest rivalries.

Messi, 39, produced the defining performance of the night with assists for both goals. The victory sent Argentina into a second consecutive World Cup final and moved the reigning champions one step closer to another global title.

Argentina will face Spain in Sunday’s final after Spain defeated France in the other semifinal.

England matched Argentina for much of the contest but failed to withstand the late pressure. The Three Lions will now meet France in Saturday’s third-place playoff.