Lisandro Martinez helps Argentina storm into World Cup final | OneFootball

Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez is set to feature in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final following Argentina’s dramatic 2-1 win over England in the semi-final on Wednesday, 15 July.

Martinez headed into the game in excellent form, having started five of La Albiceleste’s six matches before the semi-final. Martinez even set up Lionel Messi’s goal and then scored himself in the hard-fought 3-2 win over Cabo Verde in the Round of 32.

Martinez also retained his place in the team in the 3-2 win over Egypt in the Round of 16 and the 3-1 victory over Switzerland in the quarter-finals. That set up a mouth-watering semi-final tie against bitter rivals England, marking the first time Messi had come up against the Three Lions in his career.

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni made just one change to the team that got the better of the Swiss in the previous game, with Giuliano Simeone coming in for Rodrigo De Paul. Martinez, as expected, kept his place in defence, continuing his excellent partnership with Cristian Romero.

Argentina secure another comeback win

England and Argentina played out an even first half, with both teams reluctant to give an inch on the pitch. The Three Lions, however, took the lead in the 55th minute through Anthony Gordon.

As has been the norm this tournament, La Albiceleste stepped up a gear after falling behind. Scaloni turned to his attacking options, and Argentina’s constant pressure ultimately paid off in the dying embers of the game.

In the 85th minute, Messi found Enzo Fernandez unmarked, and the Chelsea midfielder unleashed a venomous shot to level the scores. La Pulga then found Lautaro Martinez, who had come on for Nicolas Tagliafico in the 81st minute, with an inch-perfect pass in the second minute of injury time. The Inter Milan man scored the winner to send fans across the world into a frenzy.

While England threw everything at Argentina in search of a late equaliser, the reigning champions held on to secure the win.

United man has a quiet night

Martinez had an unusually quiet day on the pitch, and struggled to make an impact in the game. The Argentine was involved in four duels, winning just one of them, while also losing possession twice.

The Butcher had 46 touches of the ball and attempted 41 passes with a 98% passing accuracy. The 28 year old failed to register any key passes and did not attempt a long ball or any crosses.

He managed four clearances but was dribbled past once. Martinez had been heavily involved in Argentina’s attack in the previous games, but failed to make any impact in the final third against England.

The United man could not register any shots or dribbles in the game, and also picked up a yellow card. He was ultimately replaced in the 73rd minute by Nicolas Otamendi.

Lisandro Martinez Stats vs England

Source: Sofascore.

Final Thoughts

Martinez’s progress to the World Cup final will delight United fans, who will hope that the player can return with the big prize. The Argentine remains a key figure for the Red Devils, and his experience at this summer’s spectacle is likely to benefit the Premier League giants as well.

Featured image by Michael Steele/Getty Images

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