FIFA World Cup 2026: "Here we go, New York," says AFA as La Albiceleste depart for WC final
New Jersey, July 17
The Argentine team departed for New York ahead of the team's much-awaited FIFA World Cup 2026 showdown against Spain on July 19 at the New York/New Jersey Stadium.
In a post on X, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) shared photos of La Albiceleste players as the team departed for New York. "Here we go, New York," said the AFA in the caption to the post.
Argentina secured a thrilling 2-1 comeback win over England in the semifinal, 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.
Notably, Messi also 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 win over England sent Argentina into the World Cup 2026 final, 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.
Spain, on the other hand, secured a place in the FIFA World Cup final for the first time since their 2010 triumph after defeating France 2-0 with a composed performance. Lamine Yamal played a key role in the win, winning a penalty after dispossessing Lucas Digne, which Mikel Oyarzabal converted in the 22nd minute to give Spain the lead.
Pedro Porro doubled Spain's advantage after the break following a fine move with Dani Olmo, while France struggled to create clear chances. Yamal had a goal ruled out for offside, and despite late efforts from Kylian Mbappe and Aurelien Tchouameni, Spain's defence held firm to secure their sixth clean sheet in seven tournament matches.
The victory booked Spain's second-ever World Cup final appearance.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Heartbreak for England again! But that comeback by Argentina was something else. Messi still pulling strings at this age - what a player. Spain's defence has been rock solid though, this will be a tight match. ⚽🔥
Honestly, I feel for England. They played well but just couldn't hold on. Argentina's never-say-die attitude is what champions are made of. Spain vs Argentina should be a cracker - two very different styles.
As a neutral fan, this World Cup has been incredible. Argentina's comeback was dramatic, and Spain's defence is phenomenal. Would love to see Messi lift it again, but Spain's young guns are hungry. Can't wait for Sunday! 🏆
I wish India was in the final too! But watching Messi is always a treat. That cross for Martinez in stoppage time was world-class. Spain's young talent is scary good though - Yamal is only 17! Future of football is bright. 🌟
Argentina's mentality is unreal. Down 1-0 against England and they never panicked. Messi may not score but his vision is unmatched. Spain will be a different test though - they don't concede many goals. This final will be a tactical battle.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.