Argentina have qualified for the final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating England 2-1 in a thrilling semi-final on Wednesday, moving one step closer to retaining the title they won in Qatar four years ago.
The defending champions made a bright start to the encounter and were rewarded with the opening goal through Julián Álvarez, whose clinical finish gave Argentina an early advantage and put England on the back foot.
England responded positively and found a way back into the contest with a well-worked equaliser, ensuring both sides went into the latter stages of the match with everything still to play.
Argentina, however, regained the lead in the second half with another decisive attacking move and managed the remainder of the contest with discipline and composure despite England’s relentless search for another equaliser.
The victory highlights Argentina’s consistency throughout the tournament, with Lionel Scaloni’s side once again demonstrating their experience, tactical discipline and ability to deliver in high-pressure matches.
For England, the defeat marks another painful exit at the semi-final stage, extending their long wait for a place in the World Cup final despite another impressive run in the competition.
Argentina will now face Spain in Sunday’s final after the European side defeated France 2-0 in the other semi-final. England, meanwhile, will take on France in the third-place playoff.
The final promises to be a blockbuster contest between two of world football’s most successful nations, with Argentina chasing back-to-back World Cup titles and Spain seeking to lift the trophy for the first time since their triumph in 2010.
