Argentina Stuns England with Late Comeback to Reach 2026 FIFA World Cup Final
Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail
ATLANTA — Defending champion Argentina secured a dramatic place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final after coming from behind to defeat England 2-1 in a thrilling semifinal on Wednesday.
England appeared to be on course for victory after taking a 1-0 lead, but Argentina produced a remarkable late comeback. Enzo Fernández equalized in the closing stages before substitute Lautaro Martínez scored the decisive goal, sending the reigning champions into another World Cup final.
Martínez revealed he was confident he would make an impact after coming off the bench.
“I dreamed it. I told Alexis Mac Allister that I was going to score and help the team win,” Martínez said after the match.
Following the final whistle, Lionel Messi celebrated emotionally as Argentina completed another memorable comeback, while England players were left heartbroken after seeing their World Cup campaign come to an end.
The victory adds another memorable chapter to the long-standing World Cup rivalry between Argentina and England, with Argentina once again ending England’s hopes on football’s biggest stage.
England captain Harry Kane praised his teammates despite the disappointing result.
“I’m gutted for the team, the staff, and the fans. Everyone gave everything we had, and it’s heartbreaking to come so close,” Kane said.
Argentina will now face European champion Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final on Sunday in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The highly anticipated showdown will feature the champions of South America against the champions of Europe, with the World Cup trophy at stake.
