Argentina defeats England in World Cup 2026 semi-final, advances to final
via Lefaso.net6 min read
Argentina secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over England in the World Cup 2026 semi-final on Wednesday, July 15, qualifying for the final. Despite being behind until the final minutes, Argentina staged a spectacular comeback with goals from Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez. The first half saw intense play with numerous fouls, and England initially pressed hard. A key opportunity for England came at the 33rd minute when John Stones' header from a Declan Rice free-kick was saved. Enzo Fernández also attempted a long-range shot at the 39th minute, which went just over the bar, ending the first half scoreless. In the second half, both teams showed more attacking intent. Julián Álvarez nearly scored for Argentina at the 47th minute, but Jordan Pickford made a save. England took the lead at the 55th minute with a goal from Anthony Gordon, assisted by Morgan Rogers. Argentina, the reigning world champions, struggled to equalize against a strong English defense, with attempts from Nicolas Gonzalez at the 69th minute and Mac Allister at the 76th minute being thwarted. However, Argentina turned the game around in the closing minutes. At the 85th minute, Enzo Fernández scored the equalizer with a long-range strike, assisted by Lionel Messi. In added time, Lionel Messi again proved decisive, setting up Lautaro Martínez for the winning goal. This victory sends Argentina to their second consecutive World Cup final, and Lionel Messi will play in his third World Cup final after 2014 and 2022
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