Argentina produced a stunning late comeback to defeat England 2-1 in the World Cup 2026 semifinal, extending the Three Lions' history of tournament heartbreak.
Enzo Fernández equalized in the 86th minute before Lautaro Martínez headed the winner in stoppage time, silencing England's early lead.
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Gordon's Opener and England's Defensive Shift
Anthony Gordon gave England the lead in the 55th minute, finishing a cross from Morgan Rogers after a pass by Harry Kane.
England manager Thomas Tuchel then switched to a five-man defense to protect the lead, substituting Gordon for Ezri Konsa.
The tactical change backfired as Argentina piled on pressure in the closing stages.
Jordan Pickford made a save from Leandro Paredes, but Argentina kept coming.
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Lionel Messi played a key role in both goals, first from a short corner that led to Fernández's strike from outside the box, then with a cross that Martínez headed home at the far post.
Alexis Mac Allister had hit the woodwork moments before the winner.
The match was physical from the start, with American referee Ismail Elfath officiating a tense encounter.
Elliot Anderson received an early yellow card for a foul on Messi, while Argentina targeted Jude Bellingham throughout.
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Djed Spence started at left-back and made a crucial sliding tackle to stop a counterattack, but it wasn't enough to prevent Argentina's late surge.
