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England vs Argentina: Player Ratings from the 2026 World Cup Semifinal Thriller

The defending champions, Argentina, were moments away from elimination in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Anthony Gordon's early second-half strike put England ahead, threatening to end Lionel Messi and his team's journey. Yet, England faltered dramatically in the final minutes, allowing Messi to showcase his brilliance with two assists that sparked an unforgettable comeback, leading to a 2-1 victory and sending Argentina through to the final.

Messi set up goals for Enzo Fernandez, who struck from distance, and Lautaro Martinez, who came off the bench to score the winner. England, managed by Thomas Tuchel, retreated too soon after taking the lead, inviting relentless pressure they couldn't repel. This article provides live player ratings from kickoff to the final whistle, evaluating performances on both sides.

Match Details

  • Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, GA
  • Referee: Ismael Elfath (USA)

Starting Lineups

England (4-2-3-1): Jordan Pickford (GK), Reece James, John Stones, Marc Guehi, Djed Spence; Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson; Morgan Rogers, Jude Bellingham, Anthony Gordon; Harry Kane.

Argentina (4-4-2): Emiliano Martinez (GK), Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Nicolas Tagliafico; Giuliano Simeone, Alexis Mac Allister, Leandro Paredes, Enzo Fernandez; Lionel Messi, Julian Alvarez.

England Substitutes

  • Ezri Konsa (72') - 2: Defensive substitution that backfired, beaten for the winning goal.
  • Dan Burn (82') - 3: Limited impact in final minutes.
  • Nico O'Reilly (82') - 4: Minimal involvement.
  • Ivan Toney (90+): No significant influence.
  • Marcus Rashford (90+): Unable to change the result.

England Coach

Thomas Tuchel - 2: England controlled much of the match and looked strong after the opening goal. The decision to withdraw Gordon and adopt a defensive stance too early invited pressure that Argentina capitalized on. This tactical error cost England a place in the final.

Argentina Substitutes

  • Nico Gonzalez (65') - 8: Created chances and contributed defensively after coming on.
  • Gonzalo Montiel (72') - 7: Helped pin England back late.
  • Nicolas Otamendi (72') - 8: Perfect passing and controlled midfield tempo.
  • Rodrigo De Paul (72') - 8: Added solidity in midfield with a standout performance.
  • Lautaro Martinez (81') - 8: Impact substitute who scored the winning goal.

Argentina Coach

Lionel Scaloni - 7: Argentina struggled to impose themselves early but grew into the match. His substitutions, especially bringing on Lautaro Martinez, proved decisive. The team capitalized on England's mistakes late to secure victory.

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