The latest
Argentina ended England’s hopes of reaching the World Cup final with a late comeback that secured a 2-1 semifinal victory in Atlanta.
Anthony Gordon gave England the lead after meeting Morgan Rogers’ cross, putting the team close to its first men’s World Cup final since winning the tournament in 1966. Enzo Fernandez equalized five minutes from the end of regulation with a long-range strike set up by Lionel Messi.
In the second minute of stoppage time, Messi delivered a cross that Lautaro Martinez headed into the net, completing the defending champions’ comeback and securing a final against Spain.
Details
- England’s goal: Gordon took advantage of Nahuel Molina’s lapse and reached Rogers’ cross at the far post to put England ahead.
- Argentina’s equalizer: Messi worked a short corner before returning the ball to Fernandez, who scored with a powerful strike from 25 yards.
- Winning goal: Messi delivered a stoppage-time cross that Martinez headed home from close range.
- Sustained pressure: Argentina intensified its attacks in the second half, with Alexis Mac Allister striking the woodwork twice.
- Pickford’s performance: England’s goalkeeper made important saves against Julian Alvarez, Nico Gonzalez and Enzo Fernandez.
- Tuchel’s changes: England manager Thomas Tuchel made defensive substitutions too early, allowing Argentina to take control and pin England back.
- Fiery contest: The match featured repeated confrontations and complaints, particularly over the rough treatment of Jude Bellingham.
- Another disappointment: The defeat followed England’s losses in two consecutive European Championship finals and extended its absence from a World Cup final since 1966.
- Messi’s influence: Argentina’s 39-year-old captain kept pushing until he created both late goals.
Between the lines
England paid the price for retreating too early after Gordon’s goal, giving Argentina time and space to build sustained pressure. Once the match became concentrated around England’s penalty area, Messi’s experience and Argentina’s refusal to stop attacking decided the outcome.
What’s next
Argentina will face Spain in Sunday’s World Cup final as it seeks to retain the title, while England begins another review after losing a match it led until the 85th minute.
