Argentina shattered England's World Cup dreams with a stunning late comeback in Atlanta, scoring twice in the final minutes to win 2-1 and set up a final against Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Anthony Gordon had fired England ahead in the 55th minute, but Enzo Fernandez equalised with a thunderous strike in the 85th minute before Lautaro Martinez headed a dramatic 92nd-minute winner – both goals created by Lionel Messi assists. The defeat extends England's wait for a men's World Cup final appearance to 60 years, dating back to 1966.
How the heartbreak unfolded
Under the vast dome of Atlanta Stadium, England were on the verge of a historic triumph. Gordon's goal – a rare moment of clarity in a tense encounter – seemed set to carry England into the final. But head coach Thomas Tuchel's decision to adopt a passive, defensive posture invited relentless Argentina pressure.
As the match wore on, Tuchel's substitutions drew widespread criticism. Withdrawing key attacking threats only emboldened the reigning champions. Messi, largely quiet earlier, began to dictate the tempo, and his vision unlocked the stubborn England defence twice in the dying moments.
Tuchel shoulders blame
Tuchel accepted responsibility for the collapse.
“I take the blame for becoming too passive after taking the lead,”he admitted.
“We stopped playing and allowed them to come at us. That is on me and I will be judged for it.”
Captain Harry Kane, who was largely anonymous, described the mood in the camp as
“devastating”, adding
“for now, everyone has to process what’s just happened.”
Messi magic and final showdown with Spain
At 38, Messi delivered when it mattered most. His two assists not only turned the semi-final but also kept alive his dream of a second successive World Cup title. Argentina will now face a formidable Spain side in the final at New Jersey's MetLife Stadium, with FIFA announcing a star-studded half-time show for the first time in a World Cup final.
The defeat will be analysed for years. England were five minutes from ending decades of hurt, only to crumble under pressure. For Argentina, the journey continues – one more win and they will cement a golden era.
Key stats:
Shots on target: England 2 – 7 Argentina
Possession: England 38% – 62% Argentina
Goalscorers: Gordon 55' (Eng); Fernandez 85', Martinez 90+2' (Arg)
Assists: Messi 2 (Arg)
Argentina now prepare for the final on Sunday, while England are left to ponder what might have been.
