Late Heartbreak for England as Messi Inspires Turnaround
England were left devastated in the 2026 World Cup semi-final after Argentina scored twice in the closing stages to seal a dramatic 2-1 victory at Atlanta Stadium. Anthony Gordon had given Thomas Tuchel's side the lead in the 55th minute, but it all fell apart in the final minutes as Lionel Messi set up both goals for Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez.
England, who had defended resolutely for much of the match, were undone by a late onslaught that swung the momentum decisively in Argentina's favour. Fernandez levelled with five minutes remaining, and Martinez struck deep into stoppage time to book a final showdown with Spain.
Tuchel and Kane Rue Passive Approach
Captain Harry Kane was candid in his post-match assessment.
"I'm gutted for the boys, I'm gutted for everyone, the team, the staff, the fans. We played a good game for the large majority of it. Once we went 1-0 up we seemed to just try and hold on which at this level is not enough,"he told Sky Sports.
Manager Tuchel echoed that sentiment, admitting his team "got too passive" after scoring first.
"No regrets,"he said in a brief reaction captured by BBC Sport. The defeat ends England's campaign one step short of a first World Cup final since 1966.
Controversy Erupts Over Falklands Banner
The on-field drama was followed by off-field controversy when Argentina players celebrated their win by unfurling a banner reading "Las Malvinas son Argentinas" – a reference to the Falkland Islands, over which the UK and Argentina fought a war in 1982. FIFA is now considering disciplinary action against the Argentine Football Association for the political display.
Royal and Public Sympathy Pour In
The Prince of Wales, patron of the Football Association, shared a message of support.
"The fight and belief you have shown has inspired us all. The most complete England team in a tournament. Hold your heads high,"he said, signing off as "W". Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer also said he was "gutted" but remarked that England had "made us all proud".
Argentina will now face Spain in the final on Sunday, while England must contemplate another missed opportunity on the grandest stage.