Argentina broke England hearts with a dramatic late comeback in Atlanta, scoring twice in the closing minutes to seal a 2-1 victory and advance to the World Cup final. Thomas Tuchel’s side appeared set for their first final since 1966 when Anthony Gordon struck shortly after half-time, but goals from Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez in the dying stages sent the Albiceleste through.
The contest was a cagey, physical affair for the opening hour. The first genuine chance did not arrive until the 33rd minute, when John Stones headed wide from a Declan Rice free-kick. England gradually imposed themselves after the interval, and their breakthrough came in the 55th minute. Harry Kane’s searching pass found Morgan Rogers in space, and his excellent cross allowed Gordon to finish calmly past Emiliano Martínez.
England’s lead looked secure until the final quarter, when Tuchel switched to a back five in an attempt to protect the advantage. The tactical shift invited pressure, and Argentina dominated the closing stages. Alexis Mac Allister struck the woodwork twice, signaling the danger, before Fernández unleashed a stunning drive from a short corner in the 86th minute to equalise.
With extra time looming, Lionel Messi produced a moment of magic on the right flank, jinking past defenders to deliver a deep cross that substitute Martínez headed home unmarked. England barely threatened Martínez’s goal throughout the contest, and their defensive resilience crumbled when it mattered most.
Player ratings
England: Jordan Pickford (7) produced a sensational late save to deny Nicolás González but could not prevent the defeat. Djed Spence (8) was outstanding at left-back, making a crucial tackle on Giuliani Simeone and dominating his flank. Anthony Gordon (8) scored the goal that briefly put England in dreamland. Morgan Rogers (7) justified his selection with the assist, while Harry Kane (5) will regret his limited impact. Declan Rice (6) and Jude Bellingham (6) could not wrest control as Argentina pressed.
Argentina: Lionel Messi (9) was instrumental, producing imperious touches and mazy runs that created the winner. Enzo Fernández (8) inches away from scoring in the first half before his stunning equaliser. Lautaro Martínez (8) proved the hero with the decisive header, while Alexis Mac Allister (8) was unfortunate not to score himself. Cristian Romero (8) marshalled the defence effectively, and Julián Álvarez (8) caused constant problems down the left.
What happens next
Argentina will face Spain in Sunday’s final, giving Messi the opportunity to conclude his international career on the sport’s biggest stage. For England, the defeat marks another semi-final exit and the beginning of a familiar inquest into what might have been.