England’s dream of reaching a first men’s FIFA World Cup final since 1966 ended in heartbreaking fashion as Argentina staged a dramatic late comeback to secure a 2-1 victory in Tuesday’s semi-final.
Thomas Tuchel’s side appeared destined for a place in Sunday’s final after Anthony Gordon fired England ahead in the 55th minute, leaving the Three Lions just minutes away from ending a 60-year wait for a World Cup final appearance.
However, defending champions Argentina mounted a relentless late assault inspired by Lionel Messi, with Enzo Fernández equalising in the 85th minute before Lautaro Martínez headed home the winner deep into stoppage time to send the South Americans into the final against Spain.
England will now face France in Saturday’s third-place playoff.
The dramatic collapse has sparked criticism of Tuchel’s tactical decisions after England retreated into a defensive shape following Gordon’s goal.
The German coach replaced the goalscorer with defender Ezri Konsa and switched to a back five with 18 minutes remaining, before introducing Nico O’Reilly and Dan Burn as Argentina piled on the pressure.
The tactical changes allowed Lionel Messi’s side to dominate possession, with England managing just 12 per cent of the ball between taking the lead and conceding Martínez’s winner.
Questions have also been raised over Tuchel’s squad selection and substitutions, including the late introduction of Ivan Toney, who made his first appearance of the tournament only after Argentina had taken the lead.
The defeat is likely to intensify scrutiny of Tuchel, who was appointed after Euro 2024 with the clear mandate of ending England’s long wait for major tournament success.
Despite guiding England to the semi-finals, the late collapse has left the Football Association’s gamble on the former Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager under renewed examination.
For England captain Harry Kane and his teammates, the defeat represents another painful chapter in the nation’s history of near misses on football’s biggest stage.
Argentina, meanwhile, remain on course to retain the World Cup and will face European champions Spain in Sunday’s final, while England must regroup for the bronze medal match against France.
