Argentina booked their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final after coming from behind to defeat England 2-1 in a dramatic semifinal clash in Atlanta on Wednesday night.
The reigning world champions will now face Spain in Sunday’s final after producing a late comeback to end England’s hopes of reaching the showpiece match.
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A fiercely contested encounter offered few clear chances in the opening half, with both sides struggling to find rhythm amid a physical battle. England threatened through John Stones, while Enzo Fernandez went closest for Argentina with a long-range effort that flashed narrowly wide.
The game burst into life after the break. England took the lead when Morgan Rogers delivered a low cross from the right that Anthony Gordon converted from close range in the 55th minute.
Argentina responded strongly and began to dominate possession. Julian Alvarez and Enzo Fernandez both went close, while Alexis Mac Allister struck the post as Lionel Scaloni’s men intensified the pressure.
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Their persistence was rewarded in the closing stages when Fernandez unleashed a powerful strike from outside the box after a clever Lionel Messi assist to level the scores.
With momentum firmly on their side, Argentina completed the turnaround deep into stoppage time. Messi delivered a pinpoint cross into the area and substitute Lautaro Martinez rose highest to head home the winner, sealing a place in the final and sparking wild celebrations among the Argentine supporters.
England will now face France in the third-place playoff, while Argentina turn their attention to a blockbuster World Cup final against Spain.
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