Kathmandu: Defending champions Argentina have booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final after producing a dramatic late comeback to defeat England 2-1 in the second semi-final.

Argentina will now face Spain, who defeated France 2-0 in the first semi-final, in what promises to be one of the most eagerly anticipated World Cup finals in recent history. England, meanwhile, will take on France in the third-place playoff.

England Lead Before Argentina's Late Comeback
After a goalless first half, England broke the deadlock in the 55th minute through Anthony Gordon, putting Thomas Tuchel's side in control.

England appeared to be on course for the final as they protected their lead well into the closing stages. However, Argentina refused to surrender and mounted a stunning comeback in the final minutes.

Inspired by captain Lionel Messi, the reigning champions piled relentless pressure on England before scoring twice after the 85th minute to complete a memorable turnaround and secure a place in the final.

Argentina's attack, led by Messi, Julián Álvarez, Enzo Fernández and Alexis Mac Allister, overwhelmed England's defence in the closing stages.

England's Defensive Shift Backfires
England dominated much of the match until the closing stages but lost control after a series of tactical changes by head coach Thomas Tuchel.

Following Gordon's goal, Tuchel replaced the scorer and switched from a back four to a back five by introducing defender Ezri Konsa. Later, defender Nico O'Reilly replaced midfielder Declan Rice, leaving England increasingly pinned inside their own half.

The tactical adjustments allowed Argentina to dictate the tempo and launch wave after wave of attacks.

According to match statistics, Argentina enjoyed 92 percent possession during the final 25 minutes, while England completed only five passes during that period, highlighting the immense pressure they faced.

Scaloni's Bold Changes Turn the Match
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni took the opposite approach, making attacking substitutions by introducing striker Lautaro Martínez, increasing the team's offensive threat.

The move stretched England's defence and created more space for Messi and Enzo Fernández to orchestrate attacks. Argentina's relentless pressure eventually paid off with two late goals that completed one of the tournament's most dramatic comebacks.

Tuchel Accepts Responsibility
After the match, Tuchel accepted responsibility for England's defeat.

"We defended deep to protect the lead, but we couldn't keep possession or control the game. When you lose, it's natural for your decisions to be questioned," he said.

Football analysts have widely criticized England's conservative tactics, arguing that the team's defensive approach after taking the lead handed the initiative to Argentina and ultimately cost them a place in the final.

Argentina and Spain to Battle for the World Title
The victory sends Argentina into their second consecutive FIFA World Cup final, where they will attempt to defend their world title against an impressive Spanish side that eliminated France 2-0.

The final between Argentina and Spain is expected to be one of the biggest matches of the tournament, featuring two of world football's most successful nations.

England will now face France in the third-place playoff, while Argentina and Spain prepare to battle for football's greatest prize on Monday morning.