Argentina Break English Hearts to Set Up Final Against Spain

The World Cup has its final. Argentina came from behind to beat England 2-1 in Atlanta on Wednesday, scoring twice in the final five minutes to complete one of the tournament's most dramatic reversals. England had led and had seen out the game until the closing moments, only to be eliminated in heartbreaking fashion — extending their wait for a World Cup since 1966 to at least another four years. For Argentina, and for Lionel Messi, it was another late act of defiance.

Sunday's final against Spain carries a weight that goes beyond football. Messi will face Lamine Yamal, the 18-year-old he once cradled as a baby in a photograph that has since taken on an almost mythological quality. It is the kind of symmetry the sport rarely manufactures so neatly. Spain reached the final by eliminating France, ending Didier Deschamps' long tenure as manager in the process. His departure opens one of international football's most anticipated vacancies, with Zinedine Zidane's name already circulating.

Away from the tournament, Manchester United confirmed that Manuel Ugarte has undergone knee surgery following an injury sustained at the World Cup, casting doubt over his availability for the start of next season. Robert Lewandowski, meanwhile, brought down the curtain on his European career by signing a two-year deal with Chicago Fire.