‘We are unique’

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni was visibly moved after the dramatic 2-1 victory over England in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal tonight that booked the Albiceleste a place in their second consecutive final following their triumph in Qatar in 2022.

"We are unique. These people led us to win the game," Scaloni said after the match, struggling to contain his emotions after another memorable night for the reigning world champions.

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"Speechless. This is a joy for our country and our people. The other day I said this group never ceases to amaze me, and tonight they proved it again."

Argentina will now face Spain in Monday's final, where they will attempt to become the first nation to successfully defend the World Cup title in the modern era.

"We're going to try to win and give everything we have," Scaloni said. "After matches like this, it's difficult to explain what these players continue to show. We are unique, and that's not arrogance. It's the commitment, the heart and the belief this team has. These people carried us to victory."

The coach, who has already guided Argentina to four major trophies — the Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024, the 2022 Finalissima and the 2022 World Cup — once again praised his squad's unwavering dedication.

"This jersey deserves everything until the final whistle. You cannot hold anything back, and these players have shown once again that they feel that responsibility just as deeply as every Argentine supporter."

Argentina appeared on the brink of elimination after Anthony Gordon gave England the lead in the second half of Wednesday's semi-final.

But the South Americans responded with a relentless late assault. Enzo Fernández restored parity before Lautaro Martínez completed a stunning comeback in stoppage time, finishing off a move that began with Lionel Messi's incisive pass and ended with the captain delivering the decisive cross.

The dramatic turnaround secured a 2-1 victory and added another unforgettable chapter to one of international football's fiercest rivalries, sending Argentina one step away from another piece of history.