Lionel Messi leads Argentina to World Cup final amid host successes

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jul 16, 2026, 2:35 PM

Last updated Jul 16, 2026

Lionel Messi leads Argentina to World Cup final amid host successes
Summary

Lionel Messi's standout performances have propelled Argentina to the FIFA World Cup final, following a dramatic journey through the knockout stages. The tournament, held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, saw all three hosts—U.S., Mexico, and Canada—advance from the group stage, although only Argentina remains past the Round of 16. Canada and the U.S. exited in that round, with Canada falling to Morocco and the U.S. defeated by Belgium. Messi, leading the Golden Boot race, contributed with multiple goals, including a late equalizer against Egypt in the semifinals. Argentina will now face Spain in the final.

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By the Numbers
  • Lionel Messi scores multiple goals for Argentina
  • Hosts U.S., Mexico, and Canada advance past groups
  • U.S. loses 4-1 to Belgium in Round of 16
  • Canada defeats Qatar 6-0 for first World Cup win
  • Argentina to face Spain in the final
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  • 2:35 PMYahoo SportsLionel Messi's heroics, Cape Verde's run, viral ducks and other top moments from the 2026 World Cup
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The past month has been filled with a number of lasting images and memories on and off the field.

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