Defending champions Argentina scored two late goals to defeat England 2-1 on Wednesday and book a place in a second consecutive FIFA World Cup final, where they will face European champions Spain.

Lionel Messi inspired the dramatic comeback in Atlanta, creating both goals as Argentina overturned a second-half deficit to keep alive their bid to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the World Cup.

England looked set for their first World Cup final since 1966 after Anthony Gordon fired the Three Lions ahead 10 minutes into the second half, following a cross from Morgan Rogers.

Thomas Tuchel’s side protected their lead for much of the second half, but Argentina’s experience proved decisive in the closing stages.

Messi ignited the comeback in the 85th minute, picking out Enzo Fernández, who beat Jordan Pickford with a composed finish to level the scores.

With extra time looming, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner produced another decisive moment, delivering a pinpoint cross for substitute Lautaro Martínez to head home the winner in the second minute of stoppage time.

The victory sends Lionel Scaloni’s side into Sunday’s final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where they will face Spain, who defeated France 2-0 in the other semi-final.

Argentina are now one win away from securing a fourth World Cup title and becoming the first team in more than six decades to retain the trophy.

The result also sees Messi become only the second player, after Brazilian legend Cafu, to feature in three FIFA World Cup finals.

England created several opportunities during the contest but were unable to withstand Argentina’s late surge, with key players Jude Bellingham and captain Harry Kane unable to influence the outcome when it mattered most.

The defeat extends England’s wait for a second World Cup title, with their only triumph remaining the 1966 success on home soil.

The Three Lions will now face France in Saturday’s third-place playoff after Didier Deschamps’ side were eliminated by Spain in the first semi-final.

For Argentina, the victory adds another memorable chapter to one of international football’s greatest rivalries with England and sets up a blockbuster final between the reigning champions of South America and Europe.