Argentina kept their hopes of a historic title defense alive on Wednesday evening, coming from behind to defeat England 2-1 in a thrilling 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final at Atlanta Stadium.
La Albiceleste will now face Spain in Sunday’s final at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. They have the chance to become the first nation to win back-to-back World Cups since Brazil in 1958 and 1962.
The match began as a cagey, tactical battle. Although England dominated possession early, Argentina’s physical presence disrupted their rhythm and limited clear-cut chances.
England came close in the 33rd minute when John Stones headed a Declan Rice cross just wide. At the other end, Lionel Messi’s shot was blocked by Harry Kane, with Enzo Fernández’s follow-up effort flashing just wide.
Shortly after the restart, Jordan Pickford parried a sharp strike from Julián Álvarez and recovered to see the forward’s follow-up deflect out for a corner.
England broke the deadlock in the 54th minute. Morgan Rogers delivered a pinpoint cross for Anthony Gordon to steer home and give the Three Lions the lead.
Argentina responded with relentless pressure. Pickford denied Nico González in the 68th minute, while Alexis Mac Allister hit the woodwork eight minutes later.
The defending champions equalized in the 85th minute when Fernández curled a superb strike past Pickford to force extra-time.
With momentum on their side, Argentina completed the turnaround in extra time. Messi delivered a pinpoint cross for Lautaro Martínez to head home the winner.
England’s bid for a first World Cup since 1966 ended in heartbreak, while Argentina march into a blockbuster final against Spain on July 19.
