Argentina produced a sensational late comeback to defeat England 2-1 and book their place in Sunday’s World Cup final against Spain after Lionel Messi’s brilliance proved decisive in a thrilling semi-final.
Following a tightly contested and goalless first half, England struck first nine minutes after the restart. Anthony Gordon broke the deadlock in the 54th minute, finishing confidently to hand Thomas Tuchel’s side a crucial advantage.
Argentina responded almost immediately and came within inches of restoring parity in the 56th minute. However, England defender Djed Spence came to his side’s rescue with a vital goal-line clearance to deny the Albiceleste what looked to be a certain equaliser.
Undeterred, Lionel Scaloni’s men continued to pile on the pressure, pinning England deep inside their own half for long periods of the second half. Their relentless attacking approach eventually paid off in the 85th minute when Enzo Fernández found the back of the net, converting after sustained pressure to level the score at 1-1.
With extra time looming, Argentina found one final moment of magic. Deep into stoppage time, in the 90+1st minute, Lionel Messi delivered a pinpoint cross into England’s penalty area, where Lautaro Martínez rose to meet it and steered the ball home to complete a dramatic turnaround.
England searched desperately for a late response, but Argentina held firm through the closing moments to secure a memorable 2-1 victory.
The result sends the reigning champions into a tantalising World Cup final against Spain on Sunday, while England’s hopes of reaching the showpiece end in heartbreaking fashion after conceding twice in the closing stages.
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