Argentina Stun England with Late Comeback to Reach World Cup Final

Argentina booked their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final after a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over England, overturning a second-half deficit with two late goals in a heartbreaking semi-final for Thomas Tuchel's side.

After a tense and physical first half that produced no goals, England struck first in the 55th minute. Anthony Gordon finished brilliantly at the back post after a well-worked move, sending the Three Lions' supporters into celebration and putting England within touching distance of the final.

One of the defining moments of the match came moments later when Djed Spence produced a sensational sliding tackle inside the penalty area to dispossess Giuliano Simeone just as the Argentine winger looked certain to score. The perfectly timed challenge preserved England's lead and quickly became one of the standout defensive moments of the tournament.

However, the defending champions refused to surrender. Enzo Fernández levelled the match in the 86th minute with a powerful strike from outside the box before Lionel Messi delivered a moment of brilliance deep into stoppage time, providing the assist for substitute Lautaro Martínez to head home the winner and send Argentina into another World Cup final.

Despite England's resilience and Spence's outstanding defensive display, Argentina's experience and relentless pressure proved decisive. Lionel Scaloni's side will now face Spain in the World Cup final, while England must regroup for the third-place playoff against France.