Argentina scored two goals in the final minutes to defeat England 2-1 on Wednesday in the World Cup semifinals. Trailing 1-0 going into the 85th minute, Enzo Fernandez swept in the equalizer from outside the box after receiving a pass from Lionel Messi. Two minutes into stoppage time, Messi sent in a cross for substitute Lautaro Martinez to head in the winner. Martinez said he had told Alexis Mac Allister before the match that he was going to come on and win it. The defending champions will take on European champion Spain in the final on Sunday in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
England took the lead when Anthony Gordon scored in the 55th minute but could not hold on as Argentina mounted wave after wave of attacks. England goalkeeper Jordon Pickford made vital saves and Mac Allister sent a header off the post as the English held on. England captain Harry Kane said he was gutted for the team, staff and fans, saying the players gave every bit of blood, sweat and tears but falling short was gutting. The loss marks the third time England has fallen in the World Cup semifinals after losses to Germany in 1990 and Croatia in 2018. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said the team proved its collectiveness and brotherhood, noting they were ready to go home sad but proved themselves after England scored.