'That's why he's the king' - Messi sets up third World Cup final
Retold by Oddsrama · 15 July 2026
At 39 years old, Lionel Messi just reminded the world why he's still football's most devastating presence. Argentina dismantled England 2-1 in their World Cup semi-final, with Messi orchestrating the comeback from a 55th-minute deficit. His two assists weren't just match-winning moments — they were a masterclass in how a genius operates when given space to breathe. After Anthony Gordon put England ahead, Argentina's defensive setup freed up their greatest asset, and Messi made England pay with ruthless efficiency. The veterans dribbled nine times in that semi-final, more than the entire England team managed in open play, while his seven touches in the opposition box matched all of England's outfield players combined.
Messi now carries four assists into the final against Spain on Sunday, sitting second overall in the tournament's assist rankings. He's already matched Kylian Mbappe on eight goals — level for the Golden Boot heading into the last match. If the French star's third-place play-off against England doesn't yield goals, Messi's additional assist could decide the individual awards. For betting purposes, Argentina look like heavy favourites for the final; Messi's consistency at tournament knockout stages, even at this advanced age, makes them the most attractive proposition. He's created chances at will, and Spain — a defensive side — will struggle to contain his creativity when he drifts wide.
What makes this run even more extraordinary is the journey Messi has taken. He won the World Cup in Qatar at 35, seemingly writing the final chapter. Yet here he stands four years later, still the conductor of Argentina's orchestra, having already broken the all-time World Cup scoring record with 21 goals. Fifteen of those came after his 35th birthday. His poise, his vision, and his ability to shift a game in minutes remains unmatched. As England's own players acknowledged, the world's best players find their moment when it matters most — and Messi just proved, once again, that he's still the king.
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