Whenever Lionel Messi moved towards the ball, the crowd in Atlanta held its breath. Even the smallest pocket of space around the Argentine superstar created a sense that something special could happen.

As the match against England progressed, however, the mood began to change. Argentina were trailing late in the game, and the crowd’s anticipation slowly turned into anxiety as the possibility of elimination became increasingly real.

But this Argentina team has repeatedly shown that it cannot be written off.

The defending champions once again fought back from the brink, scoring twice in the closing stages to secure a dramatic 2-1 victory and advance to their second consecutive World Cup final.

Messi did not score, but he played a decisive role by providing the assists for both goals. This time, however, it was his supporting cast that delivered the finishing touch.

England took the lead in the 55th minute and managed to keep Argentina’s attack under control for much of the match. Their star-studded midfield restricted Enzo Fernandez and prevented Argentina from creating clear opportunities.

That resistance finally collapsed in the 85th minute.

Fernandez found enough space to unleash a powerful shot that flew past a helpless Jordan Pickford. The equaliser sent the pro-Argentina crowd in Atlanta into wild celebrations and completely shifted the momentum of the match.

From that moment, Argentina looked increasingly likely to find a winner.

It arrived two minutes into stoppage time. Messi delivered a perfectly placed cross into the penalty area, and Lautaro Martinez rose to head the ball home from close range.

Martinez made no mistake, completing Argentina’s stunning comeback and sending the defending champions into another World Cup final.

The victory was far from comfortable. England tested Argentina with their physical approach, defensive discipline and determination, pushing them to the edge of elimination.

Argentina, however, have grown accustomed to surviving such pressure. They rarely make victories look easy, but they continue to find a way when it matters most.

The champions remain alive, with one more match standing between them and another World Cup title—and one more opportunity for Messi and Argentina to leave the football world breathless.