Argentina Stuns England 2-1 to Reach World Cup Final as Messi Chases 2nd Straight Title
Updated
Updated · CBS New York · Jul 15
Argentina Stuns England 2-1 to Reach World Cup Final as Messi Chases 2nd Straight Title
3 articles · Updated · CBS New York · Jul 15
Summary
Enzo Fernandez's 85th-minute equalizer and Lautaro Martinez's stoppage-time header lifted defending champion Argentina past England 2-1 in Atlanta and into Sunday's final against Spain at MetLife Stadium.
England had led from the 55th minute through Anthony Gordon, but Thomas Tuchel's defensive substitutions in the 82nd minute were undone three minutes later by Fernandez's strike from outside the box.
Lionel Messi set up Martinez's winner and stayed tied for the tournament lead with 8 goals as the 39-year-old pursues a second straight World Cup crown for Argentina.
The semifinal extended a bitter Argentina-England rivalry in a bruising match with 19 first-half fouls, 2 yellow cards and no shots on goal before tensions spilled into politics over banned Falklands-themed banners.
Is England's defensive strategy a tactical masterclass or a risky invitation for a dramatic Argentine comeback?
Will Scaloni's 'super-unit' break England's low block, or will Tuchel's cautious approach lead them to victory?
2026 World Cup Semifinal: England’s Lead Over Argentina Amid Tactical, Physical, and Emotional Battles
Overview
England has taken a crucial lead in their World Cup semifinal against Argentina, thanks to a well-worked goal by Anthony Gordon. The play began with Declan Rice flicking the ball to the wing, where Morgan Rogers delivered a precise cross into the box. Gordon seized the moment, getting his right foot on the ball and guiding it past Argentina’s goalkeeper, Emiliano Martinez. This breakthrough has set the tone for a tense and intense match, with Argentina now pushing hard to equalize as both teams battle for a place in the final.