The second semi-final of the 2026 World Cup kicked off at 3 am today (July 16), with England facing defending champions Argentina for a place in the final. The winners will meet Spain for the ultimate prize — the World Cup trophy. In the end, Argentina came from behind after going 1-0 down, with Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez scoring to secure a 2-1 comeback victory over England, reaching the final for the second consecutive World Cup.
The match was fiery from the start. Just over two minutes in, players from both sides clashed over defensive fouls, forcing the referee to intervene and warn those involved. England took the initiative early, pressing forward and applying pressure in the attacking third, while Argentina looked to play out through possession and hit on the counter. Both sides committed to physical defending, with a total of 11 fouls before the first water break.
After the water break, Argentina took control and began pressing higher up the pitch. They won the ball back multiple times and launched attacks, while England dropped deeper to defend. Both sides exchanged blows but neither could create a clear-cut chance. The first half ended 0-0.
In the second half, Argentina quickened the pace, while England sat back and looked to counter. In the 54th minute, England broke forward: Kane sent a long ball to Morgan Rogers, who laid it off to Rice. Rice returned it to Rogers, who then delivered a cross into the box. Anthony Gordon was there to slot home, giving England a 1-0 lead.
Falling behind, Argentina stepped up their attacks. England dropped deeper to contain the pressure. Argentina created several chances inside the box but couldn't find the equalizer.
Before the second water break, Argentina pushed forward again. Messi delivered a cross, and González's header was saved by a quick-reacting Pickford, denying the equalizer.
In the 85th minute, Messi took a short corner. Enzo Fernández received the ball just outside the box and unleashed a stunning strike — a world-class goal that brought Argentina level at 1-1.
In the 92nd minute, Messi delivered a cross from the right. Substitute Lautaro Martínez rose in the box and headed the ball home, making it 2-1. Argentina had completed the comeback.
Argentina held on to the lead until the final whistle, securing a 2-1 comeback victory over England and booking their place in the final for the second World Cup in a row. They will now face Spain for the World Cup trophy.
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