Argentina Beat England 2-1 to Reach World Cup 2026 Final

ATLANTA — Defending champion Argentina came from behind to beat England 1-2 in the World Cup 2026 semi-final on Wednesday, advancing to Sunday's final. The result ended England's bid for a first men's World Cup final in 60 years, according to AP News and BBC Sport.

Trailing 1-0 entering the final five minutes of regulation, Argentina scored twice in quick succession. Enzo Fernández equalised before substitute Lautaro Martínez struck the winner, according to match reports from ESPN and Sky Sports. England had led through a first-half goal, but the late collapse sent the holders through to face the winners of the other semi-final.

The match was played at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta before a near-capacity crowd. Argentina, captained by Lionel Messi, are bidding to retain the title they won in 2022.

The defeat extends England's wait for a first World Cup crown since 1966. For global audiences, the expanded 48-team format delivered record reach, with Morocco among the sides to progress deep into the knockout stage earlier this month.

**Sources** - https://apnews.com/article/world-cup-england-argentina-score-2ae6a218ae88248db6565ffd13f60d38

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