Messi's late assist sends Argentina to World Cup final
In a tightly contested World Cup semi-final, Argentina edged past England with a stoppage-time goal from Lautaro Martínez, set up by a precise cross from Lionel Messi. The goal came after Argentina had earlier equalised, forcing the match into a tense final phase.
With the score level and extra time looming, Messi received the ball on the right flank. Facing a crowded penalty area, he delivered a looping cross with his right foot—considered his weaker foot—that sailed over England's defence and landed perfectly for Martínez to head home at the far post.
The assist drew comparisons to Diego Maradona's iconic 'Goal of the Century' against the same opponents in 1986. Where Maradona dribbled past five players, Messi bypassed six defenders with a single pass. Former Sweden striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, commentating on the match, described it as 'the right foot of God,' referencing his earlier remark about Messi's left foot.
At 39, Messi no longer relies on explosive dribbles but on his vision and precision. The cross required immense accuracy: too low and it would be blocked, too high and the goalkeeper would claim it, too slow and the chance would vanish. The margin for error was minimal.
Argentina, the defending champions, will now play in their second successive World Cup final. England, who had fought back from a goal down, were left to rue missed opportunities and the brilliance of Messi's moment of inspiration.
