England World Cup dreams shattered

England were left heartbroken with their World Cup dreams shattered as Argentina struck twice late on to come from behind and win a dramatic semi-final in Atlanta.

Thomas Tuchel’s side looked on course to reach England’s first men’s World Cup final since their win in 1966 when Anthony Gordon gave them the lead in a feisty encounter after 55 minutes.

Argentina, however, were inspired and turned the contest around when Enzo Fernandez struck a magnificent equaliser with five minutes left, before Lautaro Martinez headed in a stoppage-time winner from Lionel Messi’s cross.

England’s wait for success goes on as they now face France in the third-place play-off, while Argentina will attempt to retain their crown against Spain on Sunday.

The searing atmosphere inside and outside Atlanta Stadium was mirrored by a feisty first half littered with 19 fouls, as American referee Ismail Elfath struggled to keep control.

Fernandez came closest with a long-range drive just off target, but it was England who made the breakthrough when Morgan Rogers justified his selection with a perfect right-wing cross for Gordon to score at the far post.

Argentina were stung into action, and it required a brilliant reflex save from England keeper Jordan Pickford to keep out Nico Gonzalez’s header.

As England came under severe pressure, Alexis Mac Allister headed against the post before Argentina finally levelled five minutes from time, beating the defiant Pickford with a 25-yard drive.

Tuchel had set up England to defend the box with four central defenders, but Argentina’s momentum was unstoppable, Mac Allister hitting the woodwork once more before England finally crumbled in the 92nd minute and Martinez scored to settle an enthralling semi-final.

With thanks to BBC Sport