Argentina produced another dramatic comeback to defeat England 2–1 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final on 15 July 2026 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. Trailing midway through the second half, the defending champions scored twice in the closing minutes through Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez, with Lionel Messi providing both assists to send Argentina into the World Cup final against Spain.
The first half was a tense tactical battle, with both teams limiting clear scoring opportunities. England finally broke the deadlock in the 55th minute when Morgan Rogers delivered a low cross that Anthony Gordon converted at the back post to put the Three Lions ahead. England looked on course for a first World Cup final appearance since 1966 as they defended their lead deep into the second half.
Argentina gradually increased the pressure and were rewarded in the 85th minute. Following a short-corner routine, Lionel Messi squared the ball to Enzo Fernández, whose powerful strike from outside the penalty area beat Jordan Pickford to level the match. With momentum firmly on their side, Argentina completed the turnaround in stoppage time when Messi delivered a precise cross for substitute Lautaro Martínez, who headed home the winning goal in the 90+2nd minute.
The victory secured Argentina’s place in a second consecutive FIFA World Cup final and kept alive their hopes of defending the title they won in Qatar four years earlier. England’s campaign ended in heartbreak after leading for much of the second half, while Argentina once again demonstrated its resilience with a late comeback on the biggest stage.
Standout Performances
- Lautaro Martínez (Argentina): Scored the winning goal in 90+2′.
- Enzo Fernández (Argentina): Equalised with a long-range strike in the 85th minute.
- Lionel Messi (Argentina): Registered two assists, setting up both goals.
- Anthony Gordon (England): Opened the scoring in the 55th minute.
Argentina’s persistence proved decisive in the closing stages. Fernández’s equaliser shifted the momentum before Messi’s pinpoint cross allowed Martínez to complete a stunning comeback and send the defending champions into the final.
Match Statistics
- Tournament: FIFA World Cup 2026
- Round: Semi-final
- Date: 15 July 2026
- Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia
- Final Score: England 1–2 Argentina
- Half-time: England 0–0 Argentina
- England Goal: Anthony Gordon (55′)
- Argentina Goals: Enzo Fernández (85′), Lautaro Martínez (90+2′)
- Assists: Lionel Messi (2)
- Result: Argentina advanced to the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final.