By ABAYOMI ADEMOLA
Argentina scored twice in the closing minutes to complete a dramatic comeback and defeat England 2-1 in their FIFA World Cup semi-final, booking a place in Sunday’s final against Spain.
England looked destined for a first men’s World Cup final since 1966 after Anthony Gordon gave Thomas Tuchel’s side the lead in the 55th minute, finishing Morgan Rogers’ inviting cross at the far post. However, Argentina mounted a late fightback as Enzo Fernández levelled with a stunning long-range strike five minutes from time before Lautaro Martínez converted Lionel Messi’s cross in stoppage time to seal a remarkable victory.
The defending champions will now face Spain in the final as they bid to retain the World Cup, while England’s wait for a first global title in 60 years continues. Tuchel’s side will take on France in the third-place play-off after surrendering their advantage in the closing stages.
England had defended resolutely for much of the contest, with Jordan Pickford producing key saves and Alexis Mac Allister twice striking the woodwork for Argentina. But Messi inspired the late turnaround, providing the assist for Fernández’s equaliser before creating Martínez’s winner to send Argentina into another World Cup final.
