Daijiworld Media Network – Atlanta
Atlanta, Jul 16: Defending champions Argentina booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final with a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over England in the semi-final at Atlanta Stadium.
Trailing for much of the second half, Lionel Scaloni's men struck twice in the closing minutes through Enzo Fernandez and substitute Lautaro Martinez to seal a remarkable turnaround and set up a title clash with Spain.
England appeared on course for a first World Cup final since 1966 after Anthony Gordon opened the scoring in the 55th minute. Morgan Rogers initiated the move before delivering a precise cross into the penalty area, allowing Gordon to finish from close range.
Thomas Tuchel's side dominated large parts of the contest, with Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and Rogers controlling possession while limiting Argentina's attacking opportunities. Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford had little to do during the opening half as the South Americans struggled to create clear chances.
Argentina grew stronger after conceding, with Lionel Messi becoming increasingly influential in attack. Enzo Fernandez tested England from distance, while Alexis Mac Allister saw a powerful header strike the post before Pickford produced an excellent save to deny Nicolas Gonzalez.
The equaliser finally arrived in the 86th minute when Fernandez curled a superb right-footed effort into the top corner from outside the penalty area, leaving Pickford with no chance.
Argentina continued to press for a winner, and deep into stoppage time, Mac Allister again hit the post before Messi reacted quickest to the rebound. The captain delivered a pinpoint cross into the six-yard box, where Lautaro Martinez headed home to complete the comeback.
England introduced Ivan Toney and Marcus Rashford in the closing stages, but despite more than 10 minutes of added time, they were unable to find an equaliser. Tuchel's tactical changes also came under scrutiny after his defensive substitutions following the hydration break failed to stem Argentina's late surge.
The victory sends Argentina into a second consecutive World Cup final, where they will face Spain, who defeated France in the other semi-final. Lionel Messi will now have another opportunity to lead his country in football's biggest match, while England's wait for a second World Cup title continues.