Argentina stages a dramatic late comeback to defeat Cape Verde Islands 3-2, with Lionel Messi's pivotal 29th-minute goal setting the tone. Despite trailing, Argentina's 64% possession allows them to dominate the latter stages, culminating in a decisive late surge that secures victory. Messi emerges as the hero, orchestrating the comeback with his crucial contributions.

Argentina have scored 16 goals from 8 different players but needed extra time in two of three knockout matches. England have 13 goals from just three scorers — Bellingham and Kane account for 12 — but won their quarter-final with a 93rd-minute Bellingham strike. One team has depth. The other has destiny. The data reveals a semi-final shaped by mirror formations, contrasting vulnerabilities, and two very different paths to survival.

Spain are world champions for the second time. Ferran Torres' 106th-minute strike — a precise left-footed finish — broke the deadlock in extra time after 90 minutes of Spanish dominance that Argentina survived through defensive resolve and goalkeeper Juan Musso. With Enzo Fernández sent off in the 90th minute for a second yellow card, Argentina's resistance finally cracked. Spain's 65% possession, 20 shots to Argentina's 2, and nine corners told the story of total control that needed extra time to convert into the ultimate prize.