Argentina and England produced a tense and physical first half, with both sides struggling to create clear-cut chances. England’s midfield duo of Elliot Anderson and Declan Rice kept Lionel Messi quiet by closing the space in central areas.
Julián Álvarez forced an early save from Jordan Pickford. The action proved to be the closest either side came before the break. The teams went into half-time locked at 0-0 after a tactical opening 45 minutes.
ENGLAND STRIKE FIRST IN FIFA WORLD CUP SEMI-FINAL
England broke the deadlock 10 minutes into the second half. Morgan Rogers delivered an inviting cross from the right, and Anthony Gordon ghosted into space before sliding the ball past Emiliano Martínez to make it 1-0.
Coach Thomas Tuchel responded by introducing Ezri Konsa and switching to a back five in an attempt to protect the lead.
The tactical change handed Argentina more possession as Lionel Scaloni’s side pushed forward in search of an equaliser.
LATE DRAMA SENDS ARGENTINA THROUGH
Argentina’s pressure finally paid off in the 85th minute. Enzo Fernández collected the ball outside the penalty area and unleashed a powerful strike that beat Pickford to level the score at 1-1.
The defending champions completed the turnaround in stoppage time. Alexis Mac Allister struck the post before Messi reacted quickest to the rebound and delivered a perfect cross into the box.
Substitute Lautaro Martínez powered home a close-range header in the second minute of added time to seal a dramatic 2-1 victory.
Argentina will now face Spain in Sunday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup final as they look to successfully defend their world title.
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