England's World Cup campaign ended in familiar disappointment as Argentina came from behind to win an intense semi-final 2-1, with a stoppage-time goal sealing the Three Lions' fate. The match, watched by over 24 million viewers, saw England take an early lead before wilting under Argentinian pressure, echoing past failures against Croatia in 2018 and Italy in Euro 2020.
Deja Vu for England Fans
The defeat has a sense of deja vu for English supporters, who have endured decades of near-misses. The team's unofficial anthem, Oasis's 'Wonderwall', with its emphasis on 'maybe', proved prophetic. As the Guardian editorial notes, 'It was nearly complete, it was nearly so sweet,' referencing the Three Lions song from the 1990s.
England manager Thomas Tuchel, the German coach brought in as a change agent, faces criticism after his side retreated into a defensive shell in the latter stages. 'Nervous England teams lost in similar fashion to Croatia in the 2018 semi-final, and to Italy in the Euro 2020 final,' the editorial states. 'Tuchel was supposed to be the foreign change agent, but the inability to take control from a winning position was all too familiar.'
Messi's Genius Shines
The world's attention now shifts to the final between Spain and Argentina, likely to be Lionel Messi's last World Cup appearance. The 39-year-old's genius turned the game against England, offering a spectacle for sports fans. However, a controversy arose when Messi's teammates brandished a Falklands-related banner, which the Guardian calls 'provocative and reprehensible,' generating a row where there should have been acclamation.
The 2026 World Cup has been marred by hyper-commercialisation, visa injustices, and an assault on sporting integrity by Donald Trump, facilitated by Fifa president Gianni Infantino. Despite this, Messi's longevity has delighted audiences.
England's Legacy
Tuchel and his players will depart after a third-place match against France. 'Some will leave having enhanced their reputation, others will have regrets,' the editorial notes. But collectively, they confirmed England's status in the top rank of footballing nations, a position not to be taken for granted after periods of underachievement.
The intense victory over Mexico in the Azteca stadium will be remembered among England's greatest triumphs. For now, 'Wonderwall' captures the mood: 'Today was gonna be the day, but they'll never throw it back to you.' There is always tomorrow.
