Lautaro Martinez struck a dramatic late winner as World Cup holders Argentina came from behind to beat England 2-1 in a pulsating semi-final in Atlanta, setting up a final clash with Spain on Sunday.
The Inter Milan striker headed home a Lionel Messi cross in the 89th minute to complete an astonishing turnaround, after Anthony Gordon had given England an early lead and Enzo Fernandez equalised in the 85th. The win keeps Argentina on course for back-to-back World Cup triumphs, while England suffer familiar semi-final heartbreak.
Romero: Neville Was 'Stupid' to Criticise Defence
Argentina defender Cristian Romero took aim at Gary Neville after the match, calling the former England full-back "stupid" for his pre-match assessment of the Argentine centre-back pairing. Romero and Lisandro Martinez both picked up bookings but limited England to just two shots on target.
"Gary Neville was stupid to say we were the best, worst centre-half pairing. We've shown our quality throughout this tournament," Romero said, according to BBC Sport.
Milan Face Pulisic Unrest as Zaniolo Emerges as Target
Back in Italy, AC Milan are reportedly dealing with an unsettled Christian Pulisic. According to Corriere dello Sport, the American forward is agitating for a move, prompting the Rossoneri to sound out potential replacements. Tuttosport claims that Nicolo Zaniolo is a concrete option, with a plan involving a €20 million fee to Udinese and a €2.5 million salary for the attacking midfielder. Phil Foden is also named as an alternative.
Transfer and Coaching Briefs
La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Paolo Maldini is backing Andrea Pirlo to become the next Italy coach, though Serie A clubs have expressed doubts. Meanwhile, Juventus are pursuing a deal for defender Jhon Lucumi, and Inter are targeting Djed Spence and Cristian Romero (not the Argentina defender).
Key stories from the Italian papers:
- Argentina beat England 2-1; face Spain in World Cup final.
- Lautaro Martinez winner sparks wild celebrations; Messi with two assists.
- Romero blasts Neville for defensive criticism.
- Milan's Pulisic unsettled; Zaniolo and Foden eyed.
- Maldini picks Pirlo for Italy job; Serie A clubs not convinced.
- Juventus focus on Lucumi; Inter eye Spence and Romero.
All quotes and headlines are sourced from the roundup by Football Italia.
