Argentina produced a dramatic late comeback to defeat England 2-1 in a thrilling FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final, scoring twice in the closing minutes to book their place in the tournament’s final. Lionel Messi inspired La Albiceleste with two crucial assists as England’s hopes of reaching the final slipped away.
Philips News reports that the first half ended goalless despite several promising attacks from both sides, with Argentina enjoying more possession while England remained dangerous on the counterattack. The deadlock was finally broken 10 minutes into the second half when Anthony Gordon fired England into the lead in the 55th minute after being picked out by Morgan Rogers.
England looked on course for victory as they defended their advantage, frustrating Argentina for much of the second half. However, Lionel Messi continued to orchestrate attacks and almost created an equaliser before Argentina’s persistence finally paid off late in the contest.
The breakthrough for the South Americans arrived in the 85th minute when Enzo Fernández unleashed a powerful strike beyond the England goalkeeper after receiving a perfectly weighted pass from Messi. The goal sparked wild celebrations among the Argentine players and supporters as the match was level at 1-1.
With extra time looming, Argentina completed an astonishing turnaround deep into stoppage time. In the second minute of added time (90+2), Lautaro Martínez latched onto another superb assist from Messi before calmly finishing to put Argentina 2-1 ahead and send La Albiceleste within touching distance of the World Cup final.
England threw everything forward in the remaining moments in search of a dramatic equaliser, but Argentina held firm to protect their lead until the final whistle. The victory sealed one of the tournament’s most memorable comebacks and ended England’s World Cup dream heartbreakingly.
Meanwhile, PhilipsNews reports that Argentina will now compete in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final after another resilient performance, with Messi once again proving decisive by setting up both goals. England, meanwhile, bow out after leading for much of the match but were ultimately undone by Argentina’s late surge and clinical finishing.
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