England 1-2 Argentina: Argentina reach 2026 World Cup final

England 1-2 Argentina: Argentina booked their place in the 2026 World Cup final on 15 July, scoring twice in the closing stages after going behind, according to ESPN and BBC Sport.

The holders trailed before a late double from Fernández and Martínez turned the tie, as reported by ESPN. The Guardian described Argentina's comeback as a "late double [that] breaks England hearts," ending England's run at the last four.

The result sends Argentina into the final against Spain, who advanced from the other semi-final, according to the London Evening Standard. England's defeat, their first World Cup semi-final loss since 1966 per BBC analysis, prompts questions over head coach Thomas Tuchel's selections; former striker Wayne Rooney criticised Tuchel's in-match changes in comments carried by TNT Sports.

An estimated 24 million UK viewers watched the defeat, the BBC reported. Argentina's Lionel Messi, who featured in the win, was described by olympics.com as having "inspired" the comeback.

The final between Spain and Argentina is scheduled for 20 July, according to the London Evening Standard.

## England 1-2 Argentina: Match Report

The 15 July semi-final swung on two late Argentina goals after England led, with Fernández and Martínez credited by ESPN with the strikes that sealed a 2-1 win and a place in the 20 July final against Spain.

**Related coverage:** - [Spain vs Argentina: 2026 World Cup final preview](/sport/world-cup-2026-final-spain-argentina) - [Messi at the 2026 World Cup: records and milestones](/sport/messi-world-cup-2026)

**External sources:** - BBC Sport — England 1-2 Argentina semi-final report - ESPN — England 1-2 Argentina final score (15 Jul 2026) - Sky Sports — World Cup 2026: England 1-2 Argentina

**FAQ**

**What was the England vs Argentina World Cup 2026 semi-final score?** England lost 1-2 to Argentina on 15 July 2026, a result confirmed by BBC Sport, ESPN and Sky Sports.

**Who did Argentina face in the 2026 World Cup final?** Argentina advanced to face Spain in the final scheduled for 20 July 2026, according to the London Evening Standard.

**When is the World Cup 2026 final?** The final between Spain and Argentina is set for 20 July 2026, per the London Evening Standard.

*Source Reporters corrects errors promptly. Report corrections to corrections@sourcereporters.com.*