Argentina scored twice in the closing stages to complete a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over England and secure a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final after a thrilling semifinal clash on Wednesday.
England looked poised to reach their first World Cup final since 1966 after taking the lead early in the second half through Anthony Gordon. The winger broke the deadlock in the 55th minute, finishing off a swift attacking move that rewarded England for their disciplined defensive display and energetic pressing.
For much of the contest, Gareth Southgate’s side frustrated Argentina’s star-studded attack, limiting clear-cut opportunities while threatening on the counter. Gordon’s goal shifted the momentum firmly in England’s favor, forcing the South American giants to chase the game.
OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.
However, the reigning world champions showed the resilience that has defined their tournament run.
𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐈𝐒 𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐀𝐋𝐈𝐓𝐘.
𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐈𝐒 𝐖𝐇𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐘 𝐀𝐑𝐄 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐑𝐄𝐈𝐆𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐌𝐏𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒.
𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐈𝐒 𝐀𝐑𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐀.
𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐘 𝐍𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐑 𝐆𝐈𝐕𝐄 𝐔𝐏.
𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐀 𝐅𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓 𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐘 𝐏𝐔𝐓 𝐔𝐏. pic.twitter.com/RZfSDwjCyg
— 433 (@433) July 15, 2026
Midfielder Enzo Fernández restored parity in the 85th minute, unleashing a crucial finish that reignited Argentina’s hopes. The equalizer came after sustained pressure from Lionel Scaloni’s men, who continued to push numbers forward as England struggled to relieve the mounting pressure in the closing minutes.
With extra time appearing inevitable, Argentina delivered the decisive blow in stoppage time.
Lautaro Martínez emerged as the hero, scoring the winning goal in the second minute of added time (90+2′) to complete a stunning turnaround and silence the England supporters. The Inter Milan striker capitalized on Argentina’s relentless attacking pressure, sending La Albiceleste into another World Cup final.
The victory extends Argentina’s remarkable knockout-stage run, having eliminated Cape Verde in the Round of 32, Egypt in the Round of 16, Switzerland in the quarterfinals, and now England in the semifinals.
For England, the defeat marks a heartbreaking end to an impressive campaign. The Three Lions had defeated DR Congo, Mexico, and Norway on their route to the last four and looked destined for the final after Gordon’s second-half opener. Instead, two late defensive lapses proved costly as their World Cup dream slipped away in dramatic fashion.
Argentina will now face Spain in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final after the Spaniards defeated France 2-0 in the other semifinal. Meanwhile, England will take on France in the third-place playoff, with both European sides aiming to end their campaigns on a winning note.
Goals
- England: Anthony Gordon (55′)
- Argentina: Enzo Fernández (85′), Lautaro Martínez (90+2′)
Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!
Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans.
Leave a Reply