Today’s historic England vs. Argentina match ended in Argentina’s 2-1 comeback, overturning a lead to score a dramatic winner against England. Argentina advanced to the final, where they will face Spain, while England are eliminated with regret.

A tense first half: a goalless stalemate
Both sides played with fierce physical duels, with 19 fouls in the first half alone (Argentina 12, England 7), but there were only 3 shots in total and 0 on target. First-half expected goals (xG) were as low as 0.08, setting the lowest-ever World Cup knockout-stage first-half record since 1966.

The second half turns sharply
England break the deadlock (55th minute): Morgan Rogers provides the assist, and Anthony Gordon attacks at the far post to score, making it 1-0 for England.
Argentina equalize (85th minute): Messi’s assist finds Enzo Fernández, who fires a long-range shot from outside the box to score, leveling the match.
Argentina seal the win (90+2 minutes): Messi delivers a precise cross from the right flank, and substitute Lautaro Martínez heads home to complete the turnaround—Argentina take the lead 2-1.

Tactical analysis: the tragedy of Tuchel’s “conservatism”
After the match, most post-game reviews agreed that England manager Tuchel’s conservative tactics were the main reason for the loss:
Too passive after taking the lead: after going ahead, they retreated across the entire line, becoming overly passive.
Bleak data: during the period from leading to being overtaken, England’s possession was only 12%, while Argentina’s reached 88%. Full-match possession finished at 36% for England versus 64% for Argentina.
Substitution controversy: Tuchel repeatedly brought on defensive players to “park the bus,” but it failed to work.

⚽Messi’s legend endures—Messi is the absolute star
Messi remained the main protagonist of the match. He provided two key assists (best of the game). His total World Cup assists now reach 12, breaking the historical record.

England paid the price for being overly conservative after taking the lead, while Argentina showed the resilience of a defending champion and the ability to make powerful adjustments. Seizing moments from their superstars and driven by a winning belief, they completed an epic comeback.

Next, Argentina will battle Spain on July 20 for the championship. Which team do you think is more likely to win?