In a dramatic turn of events, Argentina overcame a late deficit to defeat England 2-1 on Wednesday, securing their spot in the 2026 World Cup final. The thrilling semifinal took place at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
The match was characterized by intense physical play and numerous yellow cards in the first half. England's Anderson received a caution in the 37th minute, while Argentina's L. Martínez and Romero were booked in the 42nd and 51st minutes, respectively.
England took the lead when A. Gordon scored in the 55th minute, a goal that seemed to put England in control for much of the second half.
Argentina's Tactical Shift Proves Decisive
Starting in the 64th minute, Argentina made a series of strategic changes that shifted the game's momentum. The Albiceleste dominated the final stretch with 65% ball possession, firing 15 shots compared to England's five, and earning six corners to England's one.
The Argentine pressure eventually yielded results. Enzo Fernández leveled the score in the 85th minute. Then, in stoppage time, Lautaro Martínez, who had reentered the game in the 81st minute, sealed the victory with a dramatic goal in the 90th minute, igniting celebrations among the Argentine fans.
Martínez's decisive goal followed a series of substitutions that revitalized Argentina’s lineup. De Paul, Montiel, Otamendi, and Martínez himself entered in the 72nd minute, significantly influencing the game's outcome.
England Falls Short Despite Late Efforts
England, returning to the World Cup semifinals for the first time since 1990, tried to respond with the introductions of Burn, O'Reilly, Toney, and Rashford in the 82nd and 90th minutes. However, their efforts were insufficient to prevent their exit from the tournament.
The historic World Cup rivalry between Argentina and England, which had not seen a meeting since 2002, now includes another decisive Argentine victory.
Final Showdown: Argentina vs. Spain
Argentina’s triumph sets up a final clash against Spain on Sunday, July 19, at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Spain advanced to the final after defeating France 2-0 in the other semifinal on Tuesday. As the reigning world champion, Argentina aims to secure back-to-back titles, a feat previously accomplished only by Italy (1934-1938) and Brazil (1958-1962).
Key Insights into Argentina's World Cup Journey
How did Argentina manage to turn the game around against England?
Argentina made crucial tactical adjustments and substitutions, which increased their possession and pressure on England. This led to their late goals by Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez.
When is the World Cup final between Argentina and Spain?
The World Cup final is scheduled for Sunday, July 19, at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
What was the last World Cup meeting between Argentina and England before 2026?
The last World Cup encounter between Argentina and England occurred in 2002. The 2026 match adds another chapter to their historic rivalry.