Lautaro Martinez scored a 92nd minute winner as Lionel Messi inspired World Cup holders Argentina to a stunning comeback to beat England 2-1 on Wednesday and set up a final with European champions Spain.

Argentina beat England 2-1 to meat Spain in the Final

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Lionel Messi engineered a spectacular comeback for Argentina against England in their World Cup semi-final on Wednesday to keep the defending champions on track for back-to-back titles. Messi leads Argentina fightback Thomas Tuchel’s men were within minutes of England’s first World Cup final for 60 years before succumbing to relentless pressure from Lionel Scaloni’s team, who won 2-1. It sets up a mouthwatering contest between reigning European champions Spain and South American champions Argentina in New Jersey on Sunday. Anthony Gordon fired England ahead in the 55th minute but Argentina refused to be beaten, pouring forward in waves and forcing their opponents back. Enzo Fernandez smashed home an equaliser from Messi’s assist 30 minutes later but still they were not done. Substitute Lautaro Martinez then rose to head home Messi’s cross in stoppage time to complete the comeback and England ran out of time. It is a bitter blow for the Three Lions, who have come so close at recent major tournaments but have been unable to get over the line. Captain Harry Kane said the English disappointment was enormous. “Gutted for the boys, gutted for everyone — the team, the staff, the fans,” Kane said. “We played a good game the large majority of it. When we went 1-0 up we seemed to try and hold on, which at this level is not enough. “So, just gutted because we’ve worked so hard to be here and the lads have given every last bit of running, blood, sweat, tears.” Tense atmosphere English national anthem “God Save the King” was drowned out by Argentine singing in a crowd dominated by supporters in the blue-and-white shirts of the defending champions. David and Victoria Beckham were in the crowd at the air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz Stadium, along with Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger. The first half was a cagey affair with little goalmouth action and plenty of fouls, with neither team able to settle into a rhythm. Argentina were ahead on the foul count, though England midfielder Elliot Anderson was the first player to be booked, for a foul on Lionel Messi. England broke the deadlock 10 minutes after the restart when Gordon burst into the box, getting in front of Nahuel Molina to sidefoot home Morgan Rogers’ cross. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni made a triple change after the second-half hydration break as he searched for a way back into the game. Alexis Mac Allister thundered a header against England ‘keeper Jordan Pickford’s right-hand post and then drew another save as England clung on to their slender lead. Three-time champions Argentina got their reward in the 85th minute when Chelsea midfielder Fernandez lashed home from outside the penalty box after being set up by the irrepressible Messi. Argentina stayed on the front foot, determined to press home their advantage and Messi was again the man for the big moment, producing an inch-perfect cross for Martinez to head home in stoppage time. The 39-year-odl has produced the magic again and again in his final World Cup, dragging his team to a third final in three tournaments. He has scored eight goals so far to sit joint top of the Golden Boot standings and now has four assists as well. Tensions The fixture between two of the big beasts of global football was given added spice by a lingering sovereignty dispute over the Falkland Islands, known in Spanish as the Malvinas, in the South Atlantic Ocean. Argentina’s Vice President Victoria Villarruel upped the stakes ahead of kick-off in Atlanta by calling the English “usurping pirates”, despite efforts by head coach Scaloni to keep the focus on the game. After the game Argentina players held up a banner saying “The Falklands are Argentinian”. The fixture has a rich World Cup history. Their most storied World Cup encounter was a 2-1 victory for Argentina in the quarter-finals in Mexico in 1986, featuring two goals from the late Diego Maradona — one the infamous “Hand of God” goal and the other a dazzling solo effort. Twelve years later, at France 1998, David Beckham was sent off for a foul on Diego Simeone as Argentina beat England on penalties. Luis de la Fuente’s Spain produced a masterclass in Arlington, Texas, to beat favourites France 2-0 on Tuesday.

American R&B singer, songwriter and actress Brandy is coming to South Africa this December. The Grammy-winning superstar will headline the 2026 All White Soul Sessions Concert Tour, bringing her award-winning music to local fans for three highly anticipated performances. Brandy has sold more than 40 million records worldwide, making her one of the best-selling female artists of all time. Her career has spanned more than three decades, and she remains one of the most respected voices in R&B. Fans can expect an evening filled with classic hits, powerful vocals and unforgettable performances. BRANDY TO PERFORM IN CAPE TOWN AND PRETORIA Brandy will perform in Cape Town and Pretoria as part of the 2026 All White Soul Sessions Concert Tour Experience. She will kick off her South African tour on 14 December at the Grand Arena, GrandWest in Cape Town. She will then perform two shows at the SunBet Arena, Time Square in Pretoria on 17 December and 18 December. In a statement, Brandy said she is looking forward to reconnecting with her South African fans. “I’m so excited to be coming back to South Africa. It’s been a while, and I can’t wait to see everyone again. The love I’ve always received from my South African fans means so much to me, and I’m looking forward to sharing some really special moments with you. We’re bringing an incredible show, and I promise it’s going to be a night to remember. I can’t wait to see you all in December,” said Brandy. The concerts will give fans the chance to experience one of R&B’s biggest stars live on stage. Brandy is globally known for timeless songs including “The Boy Is Mine,” “Have You Ever,” “Another Day In Paradise,” and “Never Say Never.” Her music continues to connect with audiences across generations. Many of her songs remain fan favourites years after their release. Tickets for the South African concerts are already on sale on Webtickets. Prices range from R950 to R2 850 for Pretoria and for Cape Town between R1 450 and R1 950. BRANDY CONTINUES TO CELEBRATE MAJOR CAREER MILESTONES Brandy continues to add to her impressive list of achievements. In 2025, she reunited with Monica for the sold-out North American run of The Boy Is Mine Tour. The tour reunited the pair on stage and celebrated one of R&B’s most iconic collaborations. The following year brought even more recognition. In 2026, the Recording Academy and the Black Music Collective honoured Brandy with the Black Music Icon Award for her outstanding contribution to music. She also received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, further cementing her legacy as one of the most influential artists in entertainment. Her success has inspired generations of singers and performers. She continues to perform around the world while introducing her music to new audiences. View this post on Instagram A post shared by brandy (@brandy) BRANDY ADDRESSES ONLINE COMMENTS ABOUT HER APPEARANCE Recently, Brandy sparked online discussion about her weight and appearance following a hometown honour ceremony in McComb, Mississippi. Photos from the event and other recent appearances circulated on social media. Some fans expressed concern over her weight loss. Social media users are roasting Brandy Norwood over her new look 👀🤔 pic.twitter.com/bzL3Kym99r— Rain Drops Media (@Raindropsmedia1) July 9, 2026 Brandy later responded in a heartfelt message shared on Saturday. She reflected on judgement, ageing and inner beauty. She did not directly discuss her health beyond previous reassurances that her transformation was intentional and that she was in good health. Brandy wrote: “I’ve learned that it takes only a moment to form an opinion about someone’s appearance, and a lifetime to understand what they’ve lived through.” She continued: “So may we become gentler with one another. Not because everyone is fragile, but because everyone is carrying a story we cannot see.” “So may we become gentler with one another. Not because everyone is fragile, but because everyone is carrying a story we cannot see.” Brandy said she has stopped allowing her reflection to define her. “I’ve stopped trying to earn my reflection. I’ve stopped asking the mirror to tell me who I am. I know who I am. And that knowing has given me a freedom no opinion could ever take away.” She ended her message with a powerful reminder. “If this post leaves you with anything, I hope it’s this: Before you speak about someone’s body, before you speak about someone’s face, before you decide who they are by what you see, remember, you are looking at someone’s child. Someone’s friend. Someone’s dream and Someone’s life. A soul.” SOUTH AFRICAN FANS CAN LOOK FORWARD TO THE TOUR Brandy’s return to South Africa is expected to be one of the biggest R&B events of the year. Her concerts promise an evening of timeless music and unforgettable performances. Fans attending the Cape Town and Pretoria shows can look forward to hearing songs that have defined Brandy’s remarkable career. With decades of success, millions of records sold and countless awards, she remains one of the world’s most celebrated R&B artists. Those hoping to attend are encouraged to secure their tickets early before the shows sell out.

Orlando Pirates may have already secured seven new signings this transfer window, but the Buccaneers could still strengthen their squad before the new season gets underway. After winning the MTN8, Carling Knockout Cup and Nedbank Cup last season, Pirates are aiming even higher in the 2026/27 campaign, with a serious challenge for the CAF Champions League expected to be among their priorities. The Soweto giants are currently in Spain for their pre-season camp, where they have already played their opening friendly against Spanish side Córdoba. Despite their busy recruitment drive, Orlando Pirates could still be in the market for a striker. Former Mamelodi Sundowns forward Peter Shalulile would represent an ideal addition given the club’s need for a proven goalscorer. The Namibian international has spent the past decade dominating South African football and remains one of the PSL’s most prolific strikers. Although the 32-year-old is entering the latter stages of his career, he still possesses the quality and experience to perform at the highest level for at least another two or three seasons. His movement, finishing and winning mentality could provide Pirates with the cutting edge they have been missing upfront. However, the Buccaneers may already have an internal solution. Boitumelo Radiopane made a strong impression by getting on the scoresheet against Córdoba and could stake his claim for a regular first-team role if he continues to impress during pre-season. Orlando Pirates to sign more players Pirates could also strengthen out wide following Relebohile Mofokeng’s departure. TS Galaxy winger Seluleko Mahlambi enjoyed an impressive campaign last season and has emerged as a player capable of filling the void left by the talented youngster. With the transfer window still open, Orlando Pirates could yet add further quality as they look to build a squad capable of competing on all fronts both domestically and in Africa Who should they sign?

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