Argentina produced a dramatic late comeback to beat England 2-1 on Wednesday and book their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, where the defending champions will face Spain.
England had looked set to end their 60-year wait for a World Cup final appearance after taking the lead through Anthony Gordon in the 55th minute, but Enzo Fernández equalised in the 85th minute before Lautaro Martínez headed home Lionel Messi’s cross in stoppage time to seal victory for Lionel Scaloni’s side.
Jordan Pickford made a series of important saves as England resisted sustained Argentine pressure.
Messi once again played a decisive role, providing the assist for the winning goal and continuing his outstanding tournament. According to the Associated Press, the victory sends Argentina into a final against Spain, while England will face France in the third-place playoff.
The result was especially painful for England, who had defended resolutely for much of the contest before conceding twice in the closing stages.
Argentina’s persistence ultimately proved decisive as Lionel Scaloni’s side maintained their bid to defend the World Cup title.
Ahead of the match, England’s players insisted they had remained united despite intense media scrutiny.
Reuters quoted defender Ezri Konsa as saying the squad was “blocking out the noise,” while manager Thomas Tuchel stressed the importance of togetherness before the semifinal.
The semifinal renewed one of football’s most storied rivalries, with a place in the World Cup final at stake.
Argentina will now meet Spain in Sunday’s championship match, while England must regroup for the bronze-medal playoff.