Argentina Beat England to Reach 2026 World Cup Final

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Argentina defeated England 2-1 in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, being held in the United States, Canada and Mexico, to secure a place in the final.

The match in Atlanta ended with a victory for the South American side. England took the lead in the 55th minute through midfielder Anthony Gordon. Argentina turned the match around late in the game, with Enzo Fernandez equalizing in the 85th minute before Lautaro Martinez scored the winner in the second minute of stoppage time. Captain Lionel Messi provided both assists.

Before kick-off, supporters of both teams booed the opposing national anthem. The Argentina-England rivalry is traditionally regarded as one of the fiercest in international football following the 1982 armed conflict between the two countries over the Malvinas (Falkland) Islands.

Messi took the field at the age of 39 years and 21 days, becoming the oldest outfield player to appear in a World Cup semi-final. Argentina's starting lineup also included Giuliano Simeone. His father, Diego Simeone, played in the 1998 World Cup Round of 16 match against England, after an incident involving him led to England midfielder David Beckham being sent off.

Argentina will face Spain in the World Cup final on 19 July 2026. England will play France in the third-place match on 18 July 2026.