Messi masterclass sends England out as Argentina set up World Cup final against Spain

Lionel Messi produced a devastating second-half performance, providing two assists to knock England out of the World Cup and send Argentina into Sunday’s final against Spain. The 39-year-old, who had never played England before, completed nine dribbles and assisted both goals in a 2-1 comeback win – the first player on record (from 1966 onwards) to do so in a single World Cup knockout game. England had taken the lead through Anthony Gordon in the 55th minute, but after Thomas Tuchel sent on more defenders and his side sat back, Argentina enjoyed 88% possession for the following 37 minutes. Messi, who moved to the right wing, had seven touches in the opposition box – the same as every English player combined – and created four chances. He set up Enzo Fernandez’s 85th-minute equaliser from a corner, then crossed for Lautaro Martinez to head an injury-time winner. “Getting Messi on the wing was the key for us,” said goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. BBC pundit Micah Richards said: “They have Lionel Messi. They have the ‘GOAT’. The greatest of all time. [It's about] moments. We thought it could have been Jude Bellingham or Harry Kane, but this is why he is the king.” Argentina will now face Spain in the final – a team spearheaded by 19-year-old Lamine Yamal, who was photographed as a baby alongside Messi in 2007 for a UNICEF charity calendar. “Messi is a pretty introverted guy, he’s shy,” recalled photographer Joan Monfort. “He didn’t even know how to hold him at first.” Prince William, the FA president, said England should “hold their heads high”, praising the team’s “fight and belief” that “inspired us all”. The final in New Jersey will be Messi’s second consecutive World Cup final, having won the tournament four years ago at the age of 35.