Defending champions Argentina booked their place in the final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over England in their semi-final clash at Atlanta Stadium on Wednesday.
The South American side snatched victory in stoppage time as substitute Lautaro Martinez headed home in the 92nd minute, completing a remarkable late turnaround in one of football’s fiercest rivalries.
England had looked destined for a place in the final after taking the lead and holding their advantage for much of the contest. However, Argentina mounted relentless pressure in the closing stages.
Midfielder Enzo Fernandez restored parity in the 85th minute with a stunning long-range strike that flew beyond England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford into the top corner, breathing new life into Argentina’s challenge.
“We never stopped believing,” Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni said after the match. “Even when we were behind, the spirit in the dressing room was incredible. The players refused to accept defeat.”
With England struggling to withstand the sustained attacks, Argentina found the decisive breakthrough deep into added time. Alexis Mac Allister struck the post before Lionel Messi collected the rebound on the right flank and delivered a pinpoint cross for Martinez, who headed home from close range to seal a memorable victory.
England threw on attacking reinforcements, including Ivan Toney and Marcus Rashford, in a desperate search for an equaliser, repeatedly sending crosses into the Argentine penalty area. However, Scaloni’s men stood firm to preserve their lead.
“We are devastated,” former England manager Gareth Southgate admitted. “To be so close and to lose it in the final minutes is incredibly difficult to take. But credit to Argentina – they never gave up.”
The victory sends Argentina into a second consecutive World Cup final as they continue their quest to successfully defend the title they won in Qatar four years ago.
England, meanwhile, were left heartbroken after conceding twice in the final minutes of a match they had appeared on course to win, ending their hopes of reaching the World Cup final.
Argentina will now await the winner of the other semi-final between France and Brazil as they look to etch their names into history with back-to-back world titles.
