FIFA World Cup 2026: Lautaro Martinez's late winner helps Argentina edge England 2-1 after dramatic comeback, reach WC final
Atlanta, July 16
Defending champions Argentina came from behind to beat England 2-1 in a dramatic FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal at Atlanta Stadium on Wednesday, scoring twice in the closing stages to book their place in the final against Spain.
The opening half was an intense and closely contested affair, with both sides battling for control in midfield. England looked dangerous from set-pieces, while Argentina threatened in parts, but neither team was able to find the breakthrough before halftime. The contest also saw several players, including Elliot Anderson, Lisandro Martinez and Cristian Romero, receive yellow cards.
England took the lead in the 55th minute through Anthony Gordon. Morgan Rogers delivered an inviting cross from the right, and Gordon arrived at the far post to guide his finish past Emiliano Martinez, giving the Three Lions an advantage.
Following the goal, England adopted a more defensive approach as manager Thomas Tuchel introduced Ezri Konsa to reinforce the backline. Argentina responded by increasing the pressure, with Jordan Pickford producing an excellent save to deny Nicolas Gonzalez before Alexis Mac Allister struck the post as the defending champions searched for an equaliser.
Argentina's persistence finally paid off in the 85th minute when Enzo Fernandez reacted quickest to a loose ball inside the penalty area and fired past Pickford to level the scores.
With momentum firmly on their side, Argentina completed the turnaround in first-half stoppage time at 90+2nd minute. Lionel Messi skipped past Djed Spence on the right before delivering a precise cross beyond Pickford to the back post, where an unmarked Lautaro Martinez nodded into an empty net.
England pushed forward in search of a late equaliser, but Argentina held on through the remaining stoppage time to secure a memorable victory.
The result sent Argentina into the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, where they will face Spain on Sunday, July 19 (local time), while England's hopes of reaching their first World Cup final since 1966 came to a heartbreaking end. Tuchel's side will face France in the third-place playoff on Saturday.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As an Indian who follows both cricket and football, this was one of the most thrilling games I've seen. England defended too early after Gordon's goal — that cost them. Tuchel should have kept attacking. Messi to Martinez, what a combination! 🌟
Heartbreaking for England but credit to Argentina's resilience. Enzo Fernandez's equaliser was a moment of pure instinct. Reminds me of our cricket team's comebacks in crucial matches. Spain vs Argentina final will be epic! 🏆
Living in India and watching this live at 2am was worth every minute of lost sleep. Messi at 38 years old still producing magic — shows what dedication looks like. England fans must be gutted though, Gordon's goal was so well-taken.
I'm just happy football is getting this much attention in India now. That Argentina comeback was world-class. But honestly, England's defensive tactics after scoring were too negative — you can't sit back against Messi's team. Hope we see more such matches in future World Cups! 🔥
As a neutral Indian fan, I feel for England. They were so close to breaking their '66 curse. But Argentina deserved it — they kept pushing till the end. That cross from Messi was like watching a master artist at work. Spain will be tough, but Argentina looks unstoppable! 🎯
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