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In the North and Central America World Cup, defending champion Argentina has advanced to the final after a comeback victory against England. Once again, the "God of Football," Lionel Messi, played a pivotal role.

Reporter Jeon Yeongmin has the story.

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The match began with intense physical battles between both sides, leading to a heated atmosphere. Argentina, led by Messi, and England, featuring Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham, finished the first half scoreless without recording a single shot on target.

The stalemate was broken 10 minutes into the second half.

As England's Morgan Rogers sent a cross from the flank, Anthony Gordon slipped behind the defenders and tapped the ball in with his right foot, scoring the opening goal and his first of the tournament.

Argentina launched a counterattack, but their consecutive headers were denied by a series of brilliant saves from England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. However, in the 40th minute of the second half, they finally leveled the score.

After drawing the attention of the defenders, Messi delivered a pass to Enzo Fernandez, who fired a right-footed long-range shot into the back of the net without hesitation.

Then, in stoppage time, Messi's brilliance shone once more.

He delivered a pinpoint cross from the flank using his right foot, rather than his left, which Lautaro Martinez headed home to secure the comeback goal.

As the final whistle blew, Messi, who led the dramatic turnaround with two assists, sank to the ground, clenched his fists in triumph, and raised his arms toward the crowd to soak in the joy.

Argentina players, including goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, shed tears as they celebrated the victory.

Argentina, aiming for back-to-back World Cup titles with Messi at the helm, will face the "Invincible Armada" Spain on July 20 to compete for the championship trophy.

Video by Park Jeong-sam