Updated

Updated · Fox News · Jul 19

Messi Sets Up Lautaro Goal in Argentina's 2-1 Win Over England, Sending Holders to 2026 Final

Updated

Updated · Fox News · Jul 19

Messi Sets Up Lautaro Goal in Argentina's 2-1 Win Over England, Sending Holders to 2026 Final

Q: Will 39-year-old Messi's last dance end in glory against Spain's teen prodigy and ironclad defense?

It is too close to call, but Spain enters the final as the slight favorite, meaning Messi’s “last dance” is very much alive but far from assured. The case for Argentina is obvious: Messi, days from turning 39, has been the tournament’s defining player. He has eight goals and four assists, has contributed to goals in 11 straight World Cup matches dating to 2022, and created both goals in the 2-1 semifinal comeback against England. Argentina has also shown unusual resilience, scoring repeatedly late in matches and winning 14 straight, with Messi still the team’s emotional and tactical center. The case against a fairy-tale ending is Spain’s structure. They have conceded only one goal in seven games, are unbeaten in 37 matches excluding shootouts, and have looked like the most balanced side in the tournament. Their possession game, led by Rodri, limits transitions and starves opponents of the chaos Argentina often exploits. Lamine Yamal, still only 19, adds a symbolic generational subplot, even if Spain’s strength is more collective than individual. Models reflect that balance but lean Spain. Opta gives Spain roughly a 60 percent chance of lifting the trophy, with Argentina around 40 percent. That is not a verdict against Messi; it is a measure of how complete Spain has been. So yes, Messi can still finish in glory, especially given his form and Argentina’s habit of surviving impossible moments. But if he does, he will have to break down the tournament’s best defense to do it.

3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jul 19

Lionel Messi delivered the cross for Lautaro Martinez's second goal in Argentina's 2-1 semifinal win over England on July 15, a result that put the defending champions into the World Cup final.
That assist became part of the final's buildup because Messi's form remains central to Argentina's title defense, with the report noting he could still claim the Golden Boot if he scores and finishes level on goals.
Argentina now face Spain, who reached the final after a controlled win over France that reinforced their team-first style despite controversy over an earlier penalty decision.
The matchup pits Spain's collective dominance against an Argentina side the report says has repeatedly surged late, scoring 9 of its 11 goals in the 79th minute or later as it chases back-to-back titles.