FIFA World Cup 2026: 'Good Morning,' De Paul shares Instagram story with Messi after Argentina's semifinal win
Atlanta, July 17
Argentina midfielder Rodrigo De Paul shared a heartwarming Instagram story featuring Lionel Messi sitting beside him on a bed, captioning it, "Good Morning," following La Albiceleste's dramatic 2-1 victory over England in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal on Wednesday.
Argentina secured a thrilling comeback win over England in Atlanta, overturning a first-half deficit with Enzo Fernandez scoring the equaliser before Lautaro Martinez netted the stoppage-time winner to send the defending champions into the title clash against Spain.
Following Argentina's victory, Rodrigo De Paul shared an Instagram story featuring Lionel Messi sitting beside him, captioning the post, "Good Morning."
Notably, Messi played a pivotal role in Argentina's victory. Although he did not get on the scoresheet, the captain provided assists for both of the defending champions' goals, proving instrumental in their comeback triumph.
The result sent Argentina into the World Cup 2026 final, where they will face Spain on Sunday, July 19 (local time), while England's hopes of reaching their first World Cup final since 1966 came to a heartbreaking end.
In the match, Argentina produced a stunning late comeback. The first half was a tightly contested battle, with both teams fighting for midfield control and creating limited clear chances. England eventually broke the deadlock in the 55th minute when Anthony Gordon finished Morgan Rogers' cross to put the Three Lions ahead.
After taking the lead, England dropped deeper defensively, allowing Argentina to build pressure. The defending champions responded strongly, with Jordan Pickford making key saves and Alexis Mac Allister hitting the post before Argentina found the equaliser. In the 85th minute, Enzo Fernandez struck after receiving a pass from Lionel Messi to level the match.
Argentina completed their comeback in stoppage time when Messi delivered a cross for Lautaro Martinez, who headed home the winner. Despite England's late efforts, Argentina held on to reach the final. England will now face France in the third-place match, while Argentina will meet Spain for the title.
— ANI
Reader Comments
That De Paul-Messi bromance is wholesome 😂 But honestly, England thought they had it won after Gordon's goal. They sat back too early and paid the price. Argentina's never-say-die attitude is something we can learn from.
What a game! From 0-1 down to 2-1 win in extra time... Argentina's resilience is incredible. Messi might be past his prime but he's still the difference-maker. Spain vs Argentina final will be epic - South American flair vs European tactics. Cricket has WC, football has WC - what a month July 2026 is!
Heartbreak for England again 😢 They had it in control but that Pickford save on Mac Allister's shot just delayed the inevitable. Argentina's bench strength is amazing - Lautaro coming off the bench to score the winner. De Paul's "Good Morning" post is pure class though. Finals should be a cracker!
Honestly, England's tactics were suspect. After taking the lead, they just dropped deep and invited pressure. You can't do that against Argentina with Messi pulling the strings. Enzo Fernandez's goal was beautiful - that pass from Messi was inch-perfect. Spain will be a different challenge though, they've been clinical this tournament.
That De Paul story is going viral worldwide! 😂 Messi just sitting there like "what?" while De Paul's filming him. On a serious note, Argentina's comeback shows champion mentality. Southgate's England need to learn how to close out big games. Spain-Argentina final will be worth waking up at 3 AM for here in India!
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