Argentina reach 2026 World Cup final after 2-1 semi-final win over England

Argentina defeated England 2-1 in the World Cup semi-final on 15 July, according to Reuters, ESPN and NPR, booking a place in the final against Spain.

Lionel Messi set up both Argentine goals in a second-half comeback, the outlets reported. England led before Argentina rallied late to reach the final, Reuters said. The result ended England's run in the last four for the second tournament running, according to Al Jazeera.

Spain will face Argentina in the final after their own semi-final victory, ESPN reported. France and England meet in the third-place playoff, Al Jazeera said.

The win extends Argentina's run as world champions and sets up a Spain-Argentina final billed as the tournament's marquee clash, NPR reported. Messi, 39, continues to drive the holders' campaign, according to the reports.

**Global angle:** The final pairs South American champions Argentina against European champions Spain, a contest with global broadcast appeal across Africa, Europe and the Americas. Nigerian fans follow closely as the continent weighs its clubs' growing talent pipeline.

**FAQ** *Who won the England vs Argentina World Cup semi-final?* Argentina, 2-1, per Reuters and ESPN. *Who plays in the 2026 World Cup final?* Argentina vs Spain. *When is the third-place playoff?* France vs England; date confirmed by broadcasters.

*Meta title:* Argentina 2-1 England: World Cup Final Bound *Meta description:* Argentina beat England 2-1 in the 2026 World Cup semi-final to set up a final against Spain. Verified score and match report.

**Sources** - https://www.reuters.com - https://www.espn.com - https://www.npr.org

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