Argentina defeats England in World Cup semi-final
Argentina secures World Cup final spot
Argentina defeated England 2-1 in the World Cup 2026 semi-final in Atlanta, advancing to the final. The match saw Argentina come from behind after England had taken a 1-0 lead. This result means England will not feature in a men’s World Cup final for the first time since 1966.
The first half of the match was fragmented, with neither side registering a shot on target. Argentina employed tactical fouls to disrupt England’s attacking efforts. England eventually broke the deadlock ten minutes into the second half when Morgan Rogers delivered a low ball across the penalty area, which Anthony Gordon converted to give his side a 1-0 advantage.
Following Gordon’s goal, Argentina intensified their pressure. England’s goalkeeper, Jordan Pickford, made several crucial saves to maintain the lead. However, Argentina eventually found an equalizer through Enzo Fernandez. After a short corner, Lionel Messi found Fernandez, who struck a powerful, swerving shot from outside the penalty area past Pickford in the 85th minute, leveling the score.
Late comeback seals victory for Argentina
Argentina completed their comeback in added time. Messi delivered a cross from the right side, and substitute Lautaro Martinez headed the ball into the net from close range. This late goal secured a 2-1 victory for Argentina.
England made several substitutions during the match. Reece James, who had started at right-back alongside John Stones, Marc Guehi, and Djed Spence, was substituted in the 82nd minute. He had returned to action in the quarter-final against Norway after missing three previous matches due to injury. Other substitutes for England included Ezri Konsa, Nico O’Reilly, Dan Burn, Ivan Toney, and Marcus Rashford.
Despite England’s efforts to find an equalizer in the remaining stoppage time, Argentina held on for the win. England’s decision to defend deep after taking the lead was noted as a factor in Argentina’s ability to rally late in the game. Trevoh Chalobah was an unused substitute for England.
Player performances for England
Several England players were assessed for their performances in the semi-final. Jordan Pickford was more assured than in the previous match, making one excellent save but was beaten by Fernandez’s strike. Reece James delivered a quality performance both offensively and defensively. John Stones provided a calming presence, though he missed a header during Martinez’s winning goal.
Marc Guehi had another dependable performance, while Djed Spence continued his impressive form, showcasing strong one-v-one defending and pace. Elliot Anderson was frequently involved, maintaining possession in midfield and breaking up play. Declan Rice covered significant ground and was instrumental in the move that led to England’s goal. Jude Bellingham handled the midfield challenges well and provided a continuous threat.
Morgan Rogers pressed with intensity and provided the assist for Gordon’s goal. Anthony Gordon scored England’s only goal and displayed significant energy. Harry Kane was less involved in the first half but his searching ball initiated the move for England’s opener. Substitutes like Ezri Konsa, Nico O’Reilly, and Dan Burn were brought on as England attempted to secure the win, but the changes did not have the desired effect. Ivan Toney and Marcus Rashford were introduced late as England chased an equalizer.
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Source: bbc.com
