Argentina fights back to beat England and reach FIFA World Cup 2026 final

Argentina produced a stunning second-half comeback to defeat England 2-1 and book their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, keeping alive their hopes of defending the title they won in Qatar four years ago.

The dramatic victory also preserved La Albiceleste's remarkable record of winning every FIFA World Cup semi-final they have contested, as Lionel Scaloni's men advanced to the final for the second consecutive tournament.

England strike first after tense opening half

The highly anticipated semi-final at Mercedes-Benz Stadium began cautiously, with both sides locked in a physical battle and struggling to create clear-cut chances.

Seven fouls were committed within the opening 10 minutes, reflecting the intensity of one of football's fiercest rivalries.

England gradually grew into the contest, with John Stones coming close to opening the scoring after heading narrowly wide from a Jude Bellingham free-kick.

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Argentina's best opportunity before the interval fell to Enzo Fernandez, whose powerful effort sailed just over the crossbar as the first half ended goalless.

Anthony Gordon gives England the lead.

England finally broke the deadlock in the 55th minute.

Declan Rice released Morgan Rogers down the right flank, and the winger delivered a pinpoint cross to Anthony Gordon, who arrived unmarked at the back post to calmly guide the ball past Emiliano Martinez.

The goal put England on course for a first FIFA World Cup final since 1966.

Argentina stage a remarkable comeback.

The defending champions responded with renewed urgency after falling behind.

Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford produced a series of impressive saves to deny Nicolas Gonzalez and Enzo Fernandez, while Alexis Mac Allister struck the woodwork as Argentina piled on the pressure.

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Their persistence paid off when Enzo Fernandez unleashed a superb long-range strike to level the score after receiving the ball from a corner.

Argentina continued to dominate possession and create chances, with Mac Allister hitting the post for a second time before the decisive moment arrived late in the match.

Captain Lionel Messi delivered a perfectly weighted cross into the penalty area, where Lautaro Martinez rose highest to head home the winning goal and complete Argentina's thrilling comeback.

Argentina set up a World Cup final against Spain.

The victory sends Argentina into the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, where they will face Spain in a blockbuster showdown for the title.

England, meanwhile, saw their dream of reaching a third major tournament final in five years come to an end and will now face France in the third-place playoff.

For Argentina, the triumph keeps alive their quest to win back-to-back FIFA World Cup titles, while head coach Lionel Scaloni moves one step closer to becoming only the second manager in history to win multiple men's World Cup crowns.