Argentina produced a stunning late comeback to defeat England 2-1 in a pulsating FIFA World Cup semi-final in Atlanta, booking a place in Sunday’s final against Spain. Lionel Scaloni’s side recovered from going behind midway through the second half, with Enzo Fernández leveling the contest before Lautaro Martínez headed home a dramatic stoppage-time winner from a Lionel Messi cross to send the reigning world champions into another World Cup final.
The first half was a tense tactical battle with both teams canceling each other out. England manager Thomas Tuchel set his side up to remain compact, limiting space for Messi between the lines while looking to spring forward through quick transitions. The plan worked for much of the match, and England took the lead in the 55th minute when Anthony Gordon finished a swift attacking move after sustained pressure from the Three Lions.
Rather than pushing for a second goal, Tuchel opted for a more conservative approach after England went ahead. Defensive substitutions and a deeper defensive block invited Argentina to dominate possession, allowing Messi greater freedom to dictate play. Scaloni responded brilliantly from the bench, introducing fresh legs, including Rodrigo De Paul, and encouraging his side to press higher and attack with greater intensity. The changes shifted momentum decisively in Argentina’s favor.
Argentina’s relentless pressure finally paid off when Enzo Fernández unleashed a powerful strike from outside the area to equalize in the closing stages. With England struggling to regain control, Messi produced one final moment of brilliance, delivering a precise cross for Lautaro Martínez to head home the winner in stoppage time, completing a remarkable comeback and breaking English hearts.
The victory sends Argentina into the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, where they will face Spain on July 19 in a blockbuster showdown for the title. England, meanwhile, must quickly regroup as they prepare to meet France in the third-place playoff on July 18, hoping to finish the tournament on a positive note after falling just one match short of the final.
