England suffered more World Cup agony as holders Argentina scored two late goals to win 2-1 and book their place in another final. Anthony Gordon opened the scoring and the Three Lions were five minutes away from their first semi-final since 1966. But an equaliser from Enzo Fernandez and a stoppage-time winner from Lautaro Martinez ensured the world champions will face Spain to retain their title on Sunday night.
England's Fourth Semi-Final in Eight Years
It was England’s fourth semi-final in eight years and undoubtedly the best period since they lifted the trophy in 1966. But after the tears of Turin in 1990, the heartbreak in Moscow in 2018, England were desperate to make it third time lucky on the biggest stage.
Tuchel has become the Tinkerman in this World Cup with his regular changes and the semi-final delivered his biggest curveball yet. Morgan Rogers started on the right, it was all change at full-back with Reece James and Djed Spence coming in, and it did feel like one hell of a roll of the dice.
Tuchel's Tactical Gamble
That was definitely a reflection that Rogers made a big impact as a substitute against Norway and Tuchel left us in no doubt that he did not think his team played well in the quarter-final. Ultimately, this match is more passion than tactical. The history and rivalry extends way beyond the pitch. The noise, the atmosphere, the build-up and the tension was just overwhelming.
It turned up levels even before kick-off. Argentina fans sang and drowned out God Save The King. England fans returned the favour for the national anthem. You could feel the tension, atmosphere and passion in the air. This is what the World Cup is about. A real rivalry, a football hatred and an unforgettable moment in time.
Fierce Start and Early Chances
The passion immediately spread to the players. Tackles were flying, it was brutal and cynical. You could see it in the players’ eyes. There is often a theory that it means more to Argentina. That they have a winning mentality. But England looked wonderfully fired up, they were ready and met fire with fire.
Enzo Fernandez flew into a challenge with Elliot Anderson and it was quickly round one. We did have boxing ring announcer Michael Buffer announcing the teams before kick-off. He did not feel out of place with players trading blows.
Messi's Influence
Lionel Messi stayed well clear. Argentina’s super featherweight was playing at his own pace of walking football. Then he would pop up to take a corner, produce a pass or dart into space. You ignore him at your peril. Sure enough, Declan Rice’s misplaced pass led to a Messi break. It took four England players - and Anderson getting booked - to stop him.
It just felt a little turn of the dial in Argentina’s direction. This is a patched-up, ageing Argentina side but they still have an incredible will to win.
Second Half Drama
Just after half time, Spence twice lost Julian Alvarez and they just about got away with it. Alvarez was crowded out the first time and then fired into the side-netting. Then it all changed. Rogers had been quiet but came alive when Rice set him free down the right. Rogers sent over a low, teasing and brilliant cross and Anthony Gordon timed his run to sheer perfection as he got ahead of full-back Nahuel Molina and steered home.
What a moment. The stadium came alive. Suddenly we had a game. England battled, scrapped and fought. Spence made a sensational recovery tackle to thwart Giuliano Simeone and the England full-back turned and celebrated like he scored. It felt like he had. It set the tone. It was a night for heroes. England keeper Jordan Pickford made a sensational diving stop to deny Nico Gonzalez.
Late Collapse
And after the second half hydration break, the Three Lions had the woodwork to thank as Mac Allister smashed the post from a header. The warnings were there, but England couldn't heed them. Tuchel called for defensive reinforcements, but first Fernandez and then Martinez ensured the years of hurt will go beyond 60.
