Argentina striker Lautaro Martínez has revealed that he confidently predicted he would score the decisive goal before helping his country defeat England 2-1 in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final.

The Inter Milan forward, who began the match on the bench, was introduced in the closing stages and made an instant impact.

Martínez found the back of the net in stoppage time, heading home a perfectly delivered cross from captain Lionel Messi to complete Argentina’s dramatic comeback and secure a place in the World Cup final.

England had looked set for victory after Anthony Gordon handed the Three Lions an early advantage. The European side defended resolutely for much of the match, but Argentina continued to apply pressure in search of an equaliser.

Their persistence paid off when Enzo Fernández restored parity late in the game before Martínez produced the winning moment moments later.

Reflecting on his goal after the final whistle, the Argentine striker disclosed that he had already told teammate Alexis Mac Allister that he believed he would score after entering the match.

According to Martínez, it was a dream that became reality on one of football’s biggest stages.

The forward also praised Fernández for his crucial equalising goal and credited the entire squad for refusing to give up despite trailing for most of the contest.

He noted that Argentina remained patient in possession as England gradually lost energy, allowing the South American champions to control the closing stages of the encounter.

The victory sends Argentina into another World Cup final, where they will have the opportunity to compete for football’s biggest prize once again, with Martínez hoping his memorable winner will inspire the team to lift the trophy.