Argentina Stun England With Dramatic Comeback, Set Up World Cup Final Against Spain
By Shaharbeen Times Sports Desk
Defending champions Argentina produced another remarkable comeback to defeat England 2-1 in a dramatic FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal, booking their place in Sunday’s final against Spain.
In a thrilling encounter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, England looked destined for the final after Anthony Gordon gave the Three Lions a deserved 1-0 lead in the 55th minute. However, Argentina once again demonstrated the resilience that has defined their title defence, overturning the deficit with two late goals.
Midfielder Enzo Fernández ignited Argentina’s comeback in the 85th minute with a stunning long-range strike that left England goalkeeper helpless. As the match entered stoppage time, Lionel Messi delivered another moment of brilliance, floating a precise cross for Lautaro Martínez, who powered home the winning header to spark wild celebrations among thousands of Argentine supporters.
Messi, 39, once again proved decisive, providing assists for both goals and leading his side into a second consecutive World Cup final. The victory also marked Argentina’s fourth straight knockout triumph after overcoming adversity, having already survived extra-time battles against Cape Verde, Egypt and Switzerland earlier in the tournament.
England dominated large spells of the contest and appeared in control after Gordon’s opener. However, the South American champions gradually increased the tempo, pinned England deep inside their own half and eventually found the breakthrough before completing the turnaround in added time.
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni praised his team’s fighting spirit after the victory.
“This team performs its best when facing adversity. We never stopped believing, and the players showed incredible character,” Scaloni said.
England captain Harry Kane admitted his side failed to cope with Argentina’s late pressure.
“We deserved to be ahead, but once they gained momentum, we struggled to regain control of the game. It’s another painful defeat,” Kane said.
The semifinal extended England’s frustrating wait for a World Cup final appearance, with the Three Lions once again falling short despite taking the lead.
Argentina will now face Spain in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final after the European champions defeated France 2-0 in the other semifinal. Sunday’s clash promises a blockbuster showdown between two of international football’s most successful and entertaining sides, with Argentina aiming to defend their world title and Spain chasing another historic World Cup triumph.
The victory also keeps alive Lionel Messi’s dream of ending his legendary international career with back-to-back World Cup titles, while Spain stand in the way of another chapter in football history.
