Argentina erupted in celebration after the national football team came from behind to defeat England 2-1 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final, booking a place in Sunday’s final against Spain.
The victory has put the defending champions one win away from becoming the first nation since 1962 to win back-to-back FIFA World Cup titles.
Nationwide celebrations after dramatic comeback
Fans gathered across Argentina to celebrate after the final whistle, with jubilant scenes unfolding in Buenos Aires and cities across the country.
One of the most memorable celebrations took place in Cutral Co, a town in the southern province of Neuquén, where hundreds of supporters watched the match on a giant screen beside an 85-foot (26-metre) statue of Lionel Messi.
The crowd erupted as Argentina completed a remarkable comeback, scoring twice late in the match after trailing 1-0.
“It was a victory of suffering,” said local resident Lucas Romero while celebrating with his family near the towering monument.
Historic rivalry adds emotion
The semi-final carried significance beyond football due to the long-standing rivalry between Argentina and England.
The fixture evoked memories of England’s victory in the 1966 World Cup, the 1982 Falklands War—known in Argentina as the Islas Malvinas conflict—and Diego Maradona’s famous “Hand of God” goal during the 1986 World Cup.
Ahead of the match, Argentina’s Vice President Victoria Villarruel described the contest as more than just a football game, highlighting its historical and emotional importance for many Argentines.
Giant Messi statue becomes focal point
Cutral Co, home to around 40,000 people, recently unveiled what local authorities describe as the world’s tallest monument to Lionel Messi.
Created by local artist Aldo Beroisa, the statue depicts a smiling Messi kneeling while pointing toward the sky.
Following Argentina’s victory, thousands of fans gathered around the monument, waving flags and setting off fireworks in celebration.
Confidence grows after cautious start
Supporters said expectations at the start of the 2026 World Cup were more restrained than during the victorious 2022 campaign because Argentina had already secured one world title.
However, enthusiasm grew with each knockout victory as Lionel Messi and his teammates advanced through the tournament.
In Buenos Aires, streets that had fallen quiet during the semi-final quickly filled with celebrating fans waving Argentine flags while motorists sounded their horns.
“I’m overcome with emotion,” said Mariano Gecik, a university professor who watched the match with friends.
“Once again, it’s about resilience and determination. We deserve our place in the World Cup final.”
Argentina to face Spain in final
Argentina will now face Spain in Sunday’s FIFA World Cup 2026 final.
Victory would see Argentina become the first country in more than six decades to successfully defend the FIFA World Cup, adding another chapter to the nation’s rich football history.
