England’s long wait for a men’s World Cup final appearance will continue after a cruel late collapse saw Argentina snatch a 2-1 victory in the 2026 World Cup semi-final in Atlanta. What looked destined to be a famous English triumph turned into another chapter of football heartbreak as two late Argentine goals overturned England’s advantage in the closing minutes.

For much of the evening, Thomas Tuchel’s side appeared poised to make history. England matched the defending champions stride for stride and, after a disciplined first half, finally broke the deadlock in the 55th minute when Anthony Gordon finished a well-worked move. The goal sparked celebrations among England supporters who dared to believe that a first World Cup final since 1966 was within reach.

England’s tournament had been built on resilience and determination. Victories over Mexico and Norway in the knockout rounds had demonstrated a team capable of handling pressure, while a talented generation led by Jude Bellingham, Declan Rice and Harry Kane carried the hopes of a nation. Entering the semi-final, confidence was growing that this could finally be England’s year.

For over 80 minutes, those hopes remained alive. England defended bravely against relentless Argentine pressure and looked increasingly likely to hold on. Jordan Pickford made important interventions, while England’s defenders threw themselves into challenges as the clock ticked down. Argentina, however, possessed the quality and experience of reigning world champions.

The turning point arrived in the 85th minute. Enzo Fernández produced a stunning equaliser that silenced the England supporters and shifted momentum dramatically. Suddenly, a match England had controlled for long periods was level. Before England could recover, the decisive blow followed in stoppage time when Lautaro Martínez headed home the winner after an assist from Lionel Messi. In a matter of minutes, England’s dream had vanished.

The result will be especially painful because England came so close. Unlike some past tournament exits, this was not a performance marked by inferiority or a lack of ambition. England competed with one of the strongest teams in world football and were moments away from reaching the final. The margins between success and failure at the highest level were brutally exposed.

There will inevitably be questions about England’s tactical approach after taking the lead. Yet there is also reason for pride. Tuchel’s squad reached the last four of the biggest tournament in football and demonstrated character, organisation and quality throughout their campaign. Many of the players who suffered this disappointment remain in their prime and should form the core of England’s challenge at future tournaments.

For Argentina, the victory sends them into another World Cup final against Spain. For England, it is a painful reminder of how close they came to ending six decades of waiting. The players left the field devastated, but they also left knowing they had pushed the defending champions to the brink.