Argentina produced a dramatic late comeback to defeat England 2-1 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final in Atlanta, securing a place in Sunday’s final against Spain.
The holders recovered from going behind in the second half, with Enzo Fernandez and substitute Lautaro Martinez scoring in the closing stages. Lionel Messi played a decisive role by providing assists for both goals as Argentina overturned England’s advantage.
The opening half was closely contested, with both teams cancelling each other out for long periods. The first notable opportunity came in the 33rd minute when John Stones headed wide from a Declan Rice free-kick. Argentina responded through Fernandez, whose long-range effort sailed over the crossbar.
England broke the deadlock ten minutes after halftime. Morgan Rogers delivered a low cross from the right, and Anthony Gordon arrived at the far post to guide a composed finish beyond goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.
Argentina increased the pressure in search of an equaliser. Julian Alvarez tested Jordan Pickford early in the second half, while Djed Spence produced an important goal-saving tackle to deny Giuliano Simeone. Substitute Nico Gonzalez was also denied by Pickford, and Alexis Mac Allister struck the post as England defended deeper.
The breakthrough finally arrived after a short-corner routine. Messi found Fernandez outside the penalty area, and the midfielder fired a powerful shot beyond Pickford to level the score.
Deep into added time, Mac Allister’s effort hit the post, but Argentina kept the attack alive. Messi collected the loose ball and delivered a cross to Lautaro Martinez, who finished from close range to complete the comeback and send Argentina into another World Cup final, where they will face Spain.
