It was a tale of two halves as England’s defensive approach allowed Argentina to find their moments. A first half short on action was followed by an entertaining second period in which Argentina’s persistent pressure overturned the deficit. The defending champions secured a dramatic 2–1 comeback victory and are now set for a huge battle against Spain in the World Cup final.
The first half consisted of a slow-paced, physical battle. With a total of 19 fouls (12 from Argentina), there was a stop-start feel to the match. Both teams had difficulty generating clear scoring opportunities. The closest either side came to scoring was Stones’ header in the 33rd minute from Declan Rice’s set piece. Both teams combined for just 0.08 expected goals (xG), the lowest xG recorded in the first half of a World Cup knockout stage match since 1966.
The second half picked up momentum. Both Argentina and England came out of the break with more intention to attack and create. Just ten minutes in, England were able to break the deadlock. Kane dropped deep and picked out Rogers, only for Lisandro Martinez to make a clearance. Rice got control of the loose ball and found Rogers, who sent in a sensational cross into the area for Gordon to pounce on and open the scoring.
The game completely changed after England’s goal. Thomas Tuchel and his squad began to approach the game far too defensively, inviting consistent pressure from Argentina. After multiple chances, including Alexis Mac Allister hitting the post, Argentina finally broke England’s defensive block in the 85th minute. Moments after forcing a save from Pickford, Fernandez found the back of the net with a stunning long-range effort from 25 yards out.
All momentum continued to go in Argentina’s favor, and the defending champions were able to find the winner in the 92nd minute. Moments after Mac Allister hit the post for the second time, Argentina took the lead through super sub Lautaro Martinez. The loose ball landed in Messi’s path, and he chipped in a perfect ball onto the head of Martinez. Pickford had no chance, and England’s defensive system proved to be a failure.
Next up for Argentina: A matchup against Spain, who they were supposed to play in the Finalissima back in March.
