England’s hopes of reaching a first FIFA World Cup final since 1966 were dashed after a dramatic 2–1 defeat to defending champions Argentina in Wednesday’s semi-final at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
After a tightly contested first half, Anthony Gordon gave England the lead in the 55th minute, putting Thomas Tuchel’s side within touching distance of the final. However, Argentina mounted a late comeback, with Enzo Fernández equalising in the 85th minute before substitute Lautaro Martínez headed home the winning goal in stoppage time from a Lionel Messi cross.
The victory sends Argentina into the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, where they will face Spain on Sunday, while England will now prepare for the third-place playoff. Despite the defeat, England produced a spirited performance but were ultimately undone by Argentina’s clinical finish in the closing moments.
