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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Sport
Lawrence Ostlere

BBC confirms England v Argentina World Cup semi-final was most-watched UK broadcast of 2026

Argentina World Cup England United Kingdom Lautaro Martinez BBC One
  • England suffered a 2-1 defeat against Argentina in a World Cup semi-final match on Wednesday night, with Argentina securing victory through late goals from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez.
  • Anthony Gordon initially put England ahead, but Lionel Messi provided assists for both of Argentina's goals, including the 92nd-minute winner from Martinez.
  • The match became the most-watched UK broadcast of the year, attracting over 24 million viewers across BBC One and iPlayer, with an average of 15 million on BBC One and a peak of 21.5 million.
  • This viewership made it the biggest live TV event in the UK since the Euro 2020 final, highlighting the significant public interest in England's World Cup campaign.
  • Following their semi-final exit, England are scheduled to play France in the third-place play-off on Saturday, while Argentina will face Spain in the final on Sunday.

IN FULL

England’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina delivers record viewing figures for BBC

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