Argentina staged a dramatic late comeback to defeat England 2–1 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final on 15 July 2026 at Atlanta Stadium. Trailing after Anthony Gordon’s second-half opener, the defending champions scored twice in the closing minutes through Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez to secure a place in the final against Spain.
England looked on course for their first FIFA World Cup final appearance since 1966 after Anthony Gordon broke the deadlock in the 55th minute. Thomas Tuchel’s side defended their advantage for much of the second half, while Argentina increased the pressure in search of an equaliser. Lionel Messi played a central role in Argentina’s attacking moves as the holders pushed England deeper into their own half.
Argentina’s persistence paid off in the 85th minute when Enzo Fernández levelled the score with Messi providing the assist. The equaliser shifted momentum decisively in Argentina’s favour, and England struggled to regain possession during the closing stages. Deep into stoppage time, Messi delivered another decisive pass, setting up Lautaro Martínez to score the winning goal in the 92nd minute and complete a remarkable turnaround.
The victory sent Argentina into their seventh FIFA World Cup final and kept alive their hopes of defending the title they won in 2022. England’s campaign ended in the semi-finals despite leading for much of the second half, extending their wait for a first World Cup final appearance in six decades. Argentina advanced to face Spain in the championship match.
Standout Performances
- Lautaro Martínez (Argentina): Scored the winning goal in 90+2 minutes.
- Enzo Fernández (Argentina): Equalised in the 85th minute.
- Lionel Messi (Argentina): Registered assists for both Argentine goals.
- Anthony Gordon (England): Opened the scoring in the 55th minute.
Argentina’s comeback began with Enzo Fernández’s equaliser in the 85th minute. England were unable to withstand the sustained late pressure, and Lautaro Martínez’s stoppage-time winner completed the turnaround after another assist from Lionel Messi.
Match Statistics
- Tournament: FIFA World Cup 2026
- Round: Semi-final
- Date: 15 July 2026
- Venue: Atlanta Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia
- Final Score: England 1–2 Argentina
- Half-time: England 0–0 Argentina
- Goals:
- Anthony Gordon (England, 55′)
- Enzo Fernández (Argentina, 85′)
- Lautaro Martínez (Argentina, 90+2′)
- Assists: Lionel Messi (2)
- Result: Argentina advanced to the FIFA World Cup final.