Argentina produced a stunning late comeback to defeat England 2-1 and book their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, where they will face Spain in a repeat of the defending champions’ quest to retain their crown.
England appeared on course for their first World Cup final since 1966 after Anthony Gordon fired the Three Lions ahead in the 55th minute. However, Argentina turned the match around in dramatic fashion as Enzo Fernandez levelled in the 85th minute before substitute Lautaro Martinez struck the winner in stoppage time, with both goals created by Lionel Messi.
The semi-final, the first meeting between the two football rivals in 21 years, was tightly contested for much of the opening half, with England coming closest through John Stones’ header while Fernandez also threatened from distance.
Argentina nearly broke the deadlock early in the second half when Julian Alvarez forced Jordan Pickford into a smart save, but it was England who struck first. Morgan Rogers delivered a low cross from the right and Gordon arrived at the back post to guide a composed finish beyond Emiliano Martinez.
Thomas Tuchel’s side then came under sustained pressure as Argentina pushed for an equaliser. Pickford denied substitute Nico Gonzalez while Alexis Mac Allister struck the post before Fernandez finally found the breakthrough, unleashing a powerful effort from outside the penalty area after Messi teed him up from a short corner.
Argentina completed the turnaround in added time when Mac Allister’s effort rebounded off the post. Messi quickly recycled possession and floated a cross to the far post, where Lautaro Martinez finished clinically to send the holders into a second successive World Cup final.
Messi, 39, was named Superior Player of the Match after providing both assists. The Argentine captain also became the oldest outfield player to feature in a World Cup semi-final.
England captain Harry Kane set a national record by making his 121st international appearance as an outfield player, but the Three Lions were left to reflect on another semi-final heartbreak after surrendering their lead.
Argentina will now meet Spain in Sunday’s final as they chase consecutive World Cup titles. England, meanwhile, will contest the third-place playoff against France.
