In the 2026 World Cup semi-finals, Argentina defeated England dramatically 2-1, and there was another unforgettable moment after the final whistle. Lionel Messi Several team-mates were filmed checking Jordan Pickford’s water bottle, which reportedly contained detailed notes about the Argentine penalty taker.The video quickly went viral on social media after Argentina booked their place in Sunday’s World Cup final against Spain.
Argentina narrowly avoids penalty shootout
England looked set to reach the final after Anthony Gordon gave Thomas Tuchel’s side the lead in the 55th minute.But Argentina reversed itself again at the last moment. Enzo Fernandez equalized in the 85th minute and Lautaro Martinez headed in a Messi cross in injury time to seal a dramatic 2-1 victory, ensuring the reigning world champions progressed without the need for extra time or penalties.The late winner also meant Pickford never got the chance to use the note reportedly taped to his bottle.
Pickford’s bottle catches Argentina’s attention
Pickford has long been known for preparing detailed penalty cheat sheets for major matches, with notes taped to his water bottles to help identify opponents’ preferred penalty spots.After the final whistle, TV cameras captured several Argentinian players gathering around the England goalkeeper’s bottle, reportedly reading a handwritten note prepared for a possible penalty shootout.Messi smiled and shook his head as Enzo Fernandez and the rest of his team-mates checked the bottle, a group that seemed happy that the best-laid plan ended up not being used.The exact contents of the bottles have not been officially confirmed, although it was widely reported that the notes were labeled as Argentina’s penalty taker.
Pay attention to every detail
The incident also highlighted how balanced the game became in the closing stages.Argentinian players are reportedly interested in Pickford’s preparations as the game draws to a close with the possibility of a penalty looming. Instead, Lautaro Martinez’s stoppage-time winner made the penalty shootout unnecessary.A light-hearted exchange with Pickford’s bottle capped a dramatic semi-final, with Messi’s smile reflecting relief and contentment after Argentina avoided another tense penalty shootout.Instead of facing one of the best goalkeepers in football from 12 yards, Argentina got the job done in normal time and will now turn their attention to a sensational World Cup final against Spain.
