Argentina came from behind to beat England 2-1 in a tense World Cup semifinal on Wednesday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, booking a spot in Sunday's final against Spain. England took the lead in the 55th minute through Anthony Gordon, who tapped in a cross, before Argentina responded with two late goals: Enzo Fernandez leveled the score with a long-range strike in the 85th minute, and Lautaro Martinez headed home the winner in stoppage time off a cross from Lionel Messi.
A Fourth Straight Nail-Biting Knockout Win
Wednesday's win extended a pattern for the defending champions, who have needed late drama in every knockout match this tournament. Argentina needed extra time to beat Cape Verde, came from 2-0 down to beat Egypt, and needed extra time again against a shorthanded Switzerland side in the quarterfinal. Referee Ismail Elfath, the first American man to work a World Cup semifinal, booked a player from each side before halftime in a physical match that produced only three shots on target in the first half.
Spain Awaits in Sunday's Final
Argentina will now play Spain in Sunday's final at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, aiming for a second consecutive World Cup title after Spain beat France 2-0 in Tuesday's other semifinal. England's defeat extends the team's wait for a first World Cup title since 1966, a run now approaching six decades. The two sides have met six times at men's World Cups, a rivalry that includes Diego Maradona's Hand of God goal in 1986.
