Atlanta: Argentina defeats England 2-1 to reach World Cup final
Argentina’s Comeback Victory
Argentina secured a 2-1 comeback victory against England in a World Cup semifinal match held in Atlanta. The defending champions were trailing by a single goal with five minutes of normal time remaining but managed to score two late goals to clinch their spot in the final. This result means Argentina is now one match away from potentially achieving back-to-back World Cup titles, a feat previously accomplished by Italy and Brazil.
The atmosphere at Mercedes-Benz Stadium was described as deafening, with both sets of fans creating a tense environment that translated to a highly physical first half. Incidents included Leandro Paredes challenging Jude Bellingham and Enzo Fernández engaging with Elliot Anderson. The first half concluded without any goals, as neither team managed to establish a consistent rhythm.
The match intensified after the interval. England broke the deadlock when Morgan Rogers delivered a cross, which Anthony Gordon converted past Emi Martínez. Following this goal, England, under coach Thomas Tuchel, adopted a defensive strategy, absorbing significant pressure from Argentina. Jordon Pickford made a crucial save to deny Nico González, and Alexis Mac Allister hit the post with a header as Argentina pressed for an equalizer.
Messi’s Impact and Late Goals
Lionel Messi played a pivotal role in Argentina’s late surge. Despite being largely contained for much of the game, Messi provided two assists in a seven-minute period that turned the tide. In the 85th minute, Messi laid the ball off to Enzo Fernández from a short-corner routine, and Fernández unleashed a long-range shot that found the far corner of the net, leveling the score.
With England reeling, Argentina delivered the decisive blow in stoppage time. Messi created space on the flank and delivered a precise cross. Substitute Lautaro Martínez met the cross with a header, scoring the winning goal. At the final whistle, Messi dropped to his knees in celebration, while England players collapsed in disbelief.
Lautaro Martínez expressed confidence in his team, stating, “I dreamed it, I swear. I told Alexis (Mac Allister) that I was going to score. I told him that I was going to come on and I was going to win it.” Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni highlighted the team’s collective spirit and resilience, noting their ability to fight back even when facing elimination.
Looking Ahead to the Final
The loss marks another semifinal disappointment for England, following previous defeats in 1990 and 2018. England captain Harry Kane conveyed his disappointment, stating, “I’m gutted for the team, the staff, the fans. We worked so hard to be here. The lads have given every bit of blood, sweat and tears. To fall short like we did is just gutting.” Thomas Tuchel acknowledged that Argentina played with more risk and rhythm after falling behind, which he felt freed them up while holding England back.
Argentina will now face European champions Spain in the final. The match is scheduled to take place in East Rutherford on Sunday, setting up a contest between what is described as the best of South America and the best of Europe. Messi, at likely his last World Cup, is one victory away from further solidifying his legacy in football history.
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Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
