Fernando, Martinenz Score, Messi Heroic Argentina Stun England 2-1 With Two Late Goals to Reach World Cup Final.
ATLANTA — England were minutes away from a first men’s FIFA World Cup final since 1966, but Argentina produced another astonishing comeback to win 2-1 and book their place in Sunday’s final against Spain.
In a semi-final that swung from chaos to brilliance, Anthony Gordon gave England the lead in the 55th minute after meeting a superb cross from Morgan Rogers. The Three Lions appeared to be in control, with goalkeeper Jordan Pickford making a series of vital saves to protect the advantage.
But Argentina’s pressure never faded.
With just five minutes remaining, Enzo Fernández unleashed a stunning 25-yard strike that finally beat Pickford and sent the Argentine supporters inside Atlanta Stadium into delirium. Before England could recover, Lautaro MartÃnez delivered the knockout blow in injury time, turning home the winner in the 92nd minute after sustained Argentine pressure.
The result sends the defending champions into another World Cup final, where they will attempt to retain their crown against Spain. England, meanwhile, must settle for a third-place play-off against France.
A Semi-Final Full of Fire and Drama
The atmosphere in Atlanta was electric long before kickoff, and the match itself quickly became a fierce battle. Referee Ismail Elfath struggled to contain a first half littered with fouls, crunching tackles and heated confrontations between the players.
Argentina nearly struck first through Fernández, whose long-range effort flashed narrowly wide, while England threatened from set pieces. The breakthrough finally arrived when Rogers whipped a perfect cross to the far post for Gordon to finish from close range.
From that moment, Argentina surged forward. Nico González forced a brilliant reflex save from Pickford, and Alexis Mac Allister struck the post as England’s defense came under relentless pressure.
The equaliser eventually arrived through Fernández’s thunderous drive, and MartÃnez completed the turnaround moments later to cap one of the tournament’s most dramatic finishes.
Messi’s Final Mission Continues
While Lionel Messi did not score, his influence was felt throughout another memorable Argentine escape act. The victory keeps alive Argentina’s quest to defend the World Cup and gives Messi a chance to add another chapter to his legendary international career.
For England and manager Thomas Tuchel, the defeat will be remembered as a cruel collapse after leading deep into the second half. For Argentina, it was yet another reminder that this team has a remarkable habit of finding a way when the stakes are highest.
Final score: Argentina 2-1 England (after 90 minutes)
Goals: Gordon 55'; Fernández 85'; MartÃnez 90+2'
Next up: Argentina vs Spain — FIFA World Cup Final, Sunday.
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