Argentina’s Enzo Fernandez & Lautaro Martinez struck late goals to clinch a closely fought 2-1 win over England in the World Cup semi-final on Wednesday, 15 July ’26. It sent Lionel Messi’s reigning champions into the weekend showpiece against Spain.
Just when England appeared set for victory after Anthony Gordon’s second-half goal, Argentina mounted a relentless late siege to secure their reward. The comeback was as Fernandez levelled before Martinez completed the turnaround in the 92nd minute, with Messi providing the pass for the equaliser and the cross for the winner.
This result added another unforgettable chapter to one of soccer’s fiercest rivalries. It’s a contest rich in history and emotion, besides the tension from the opening whistle.
For England, it was likely a dream of reaching their first World Cup final in 60 years since 1966. That’s when they enjoyed their only triumph at the global tournament. In the final moments, Argentina shattered England’s aspirations. This was while Argentina celebrated a return that kept their quest for another world title alive.
With England inexplicably parked in their end, an Argentinian equaliser felt inevitable. The goal was after waves of late pressure. Fernandez eventually broke through in the 85th minute when Messi found him in space on the edge of the box to fire home from 20 metres past Jordan Pickford into the corner.
Martinez, an 81st-minute substitute, struck the winner early in added time when Alexis Mac Allister drove a shot off the post that Messi recovered. The 39-year-old talisman drove down the right to send in a brilliant ball for Martinez to head home.
Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni said that they were truly unique, & that wasn’t arrogance. Scaloni expressed his heartfelt gratitude, emphasising that the players had guided them to victory. He expressed his inability to find the right words. Also, it was a joy for their country besides its people.
