Argentina produced a stunning late comeback to defeat England 2-1 in a dramatic FIFA World Cup semi-final at Atlanta Stadium, ending England’s hopes of reaching their first men’s World Cup final since 1966.
England looked destined for the final after Anthony Gordon gave Thomas Tuchel’s side a deserved lead in the 55th minute, finishing expertly from a pinpoint cross by Morgan Rogers. The match had been fiercely contested from the outset, with both teams battling intensely in a physical first half.
Argentina, however, refused to surrender. Enzo Fernández brought the South American champions level in the 85th minute with a spectacular long-range strike that finally beat England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford after a series of outstanding saves.
With momentum firmly on their side, Argentina completed the turnaround deep into stoppage time. Lionel Messi delivered a perfectly weighted cross into the box, where Lautaro Martínez rose highest to head home the dramatic winner in the 92nd minute.
England had defended resolutely for much of the second half, with Pickford producing several crucial saves and the woodwork denying Alexis Mac Allister twice. But Argentina’s relentless pressure eventually proved too much for Tuchel’s side.
The thrilling encounter reflected the electric atmosphere inside Atlanta Stadium, where a fiercely competitive first half featured numerous fouls and intense challenges as referee Ismail Elfath worked hard to maintain control.
Argentina will now face Spain in Sunday’s FIFA World Cup final as they aim to defend their world title, while England will take on France in the third-place play-off after another heartbreaking World Cup exit.
