FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal: Argentina Defeats England 2-1

Lionel Messi fuels Argentina's stunning late rally past England into World Cup final

Argentina staged a comeback from 1-0 down to beat England 2-1 in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinal at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

England took a 1-0 lead via Anthony Gordon’s goal. Still, Enzo Fernández equalised in the 85th minute from a Lionel Messi assist, and Lautaro Martínez scored the winner in stoppage time from another Messi assist. The match at Mercedes-Benz Stadium advanced Argentina to the final against Spain and eliminated England. Post-match incidents included Jude Bellingham slapping Argentina’s Valentín Barco and Argentine players displaying a ‘Las Malvinas son Argentinas’ banner.

Argentina will try to hold onto their title against Spain on Sunday, while England’s hunt for victory continues as they now play France in the third-place play-off. American referee Ismail Elfath battled to maintain control throughout a fierce first half that was marred by 19 fouls, reflecting the intense atmosphere both inside and outside Atlanta Stadium.

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🚨🚨 OFFICIAL: ENGLAND ARE OUT OF THE WORLD CUP. ❌🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 pic.twitter.com/ExfhLWCMPD

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 15, 2026

Fernandez came closest with a long-range shot that was just off target, but Morgan Rogers’ exquisite right-wing cross that allowed Gordon to score at the far post gave England the lead. Argentina was forced to play, and England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford had to make an incredible reflex save to stop Nico Gonzalez’s header.

And then, in the 87th minute, Argentina did what Argentina does, coming through with a miraculous late goal. Enzo Fernandez, who had been banging away at Pickford all afternoon, finally blasted one past the England keeper, equalising the match and sending the Messi jersey-wearing thousands into delirium.