- England 's World Cup hopes were ended after suffering a heartbreaking 2-1 semi-final defeat to Argentina , who staged a dramatic late comeback inspired by Lionel Messi.
- Anthony Gordon 's strike had initially put England in a commanding position, leading them to believe they were on the verge of reaching their first men's World Cup final since 1966.
- Argentina, spurred on by their fervent supporters and Messi's brilliance, equalised five minutes from time when Enzo Fernandez scored, following an assist from the veteran star.
- Lautaro Martinez then sealed England's fate in stoppage time, heading home another cross from Messi to secure Argentina's victory and set up a final clash against Spain.
- The defeat, which took place at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, represents another instance of England falling short in a major tournament, with Thomas Tuchel's defensive approach partly blamed for the outcome.
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