Argentina overturn deficit to reach 2026 World Cup final against Spain
Reigning champions Argentina secured a place in the final with a dramatic 2-1 victory over England, setting up a clash with Spain while ending England’s hopes of a first men’s final since 1966.
Reigning World Cup champions Argentina have secured a place in the 2026 final after overturning a one-goal deficit to defeat England 2-1 in Atlanta. The Albiceleste will face Spain in the championship match on Sunday night, a fixture that will see Lionel Messi take on Spain’s Lamine Yamal as Argentina pursue a historic fourth title.
England held a one-goal lead until the 85th minute, with Gordon scoring in the 55th minute to put the Three Lions on course for their second World Cup final appearance. However, Argentina applied sustained pressure, with Alexis Mac Allister striking the woodwork twice before Enzo Fernández equalised in the 85th minute.
The match concluded in stoppage time when Lautaro Martínez scored the winning goal, assisted by Messi, who recorded his 10th assist of the tournament. Martínez described the team’s journey as "incredible" and admitted his voice was still shaking after the victory, while England captain Harry Kane stated the squad was "devastated" by the loss.
The result ends England’s hopes of reaching their first men’s World Cup final since 1966. England manager Thomas Tuchel has committed to his role through Euro 2028 following the semi-final exit. The team will now contest the third-place play-off against France on Saturday.
Spain defeated France to reach the final, which is part of the first World Cup hosted across multiple nations, including the United States. The closing ceremony will feature performances by Post Malone, Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger, and Robbie Williams, alongside a special appearance by Tom Cruise.
