Argentina staged a dramatic comeback to defeat England 2-1 in the 2026 World Cup semifinal, securing a spot in the final, reports infohub.kz.
On the road to the semifinal, England earned a comeback 2-1 win over DR Congo, then edged Mexico 3-2 in the round of 16 and beat Norway 2-1 in extra time. Argentina needed extra time to beat Cape Verde 3-2, then overcame Egypt 3-2 after 120 minutes and eliminated Switzerland 3-1 in extra time in the quarterfinal.
The first half ended goalless with a combined 0.08 expected goals (xG). The period was marked by physical play: Argentina committed 12 fouls and England 7.
England broke the deadlock in the 55th minute. Morgan Rogers delivered a cross from the flank and Anthony Gordon headed home. Argentina pushed for an equalizer but England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford made several saves. England then retreated into a defensive shell.
Argentina equalized in the 85th minute through Enzo Fernandez, who struck a long-range shot into the net. Deep into stoppage time (90+2), Lionel Messi sent in a cross from the right and Lautaro Martinez headed the ball into the goal to make it 2-1.
Argentina will face Spain in the final, scheduled for July 19-20 at 00:00 Kazakhstan time. England will play France for third place.