Argentina defeats England 2-1 to reach World Cup 2026 final
In the semi‑final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Atlanta, Argentina overturned a 1‑0 deficit to beat England 2‑1 and book a place in the following day's final against Spain. Anthony Gordon gave England the lead in the 55th minute, but Enzo Fernández equalised in the 85th after a Messi‑crafted chance, and Lautaro Martínez headed the winner in the 92nd minute of stoppage time, also from a Messi cross. The comeback secured Argentina’s second consecutive final appearance. The match was played at the Mercedes‑Benz Stadium (later referred to as MetLife Stadium for the final) in the United States, drawing a crowd of over 68,000. Post‑match, Argentine coach Lionel Scaloni praised his side’s resilience, while England’s manager Thomas Tuchel defended his defensive changes. Police in Atlanta were deployed to keep Argentine and English supporters apart after the game to prevent clashes. Argentina now prepares to face European champions Spain in the final on Sunday at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.