Argentina stun England in World Cup semi-final: Messi masterclass leaves Three Lions heartbroken

Argentina produced a stunning second-half comeback to defeat England 2-1 in the World Cup semi-final, with Lionel Messi once again proving his genius on the biggest stage. Anthony Gordon gave the Three Lions an early lead, but two goals in quick succession from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez turned the tie on its head and sent the South Americans through to face Spain in Sunday's final.

England started brightly and took the lead through Gordon, who combined well with Morgan Rogers to finish past Emiliano Martinez. That goal gave Thomas Tuchel's side a platform, but the manager adopted an overly defensive approach after going ahead, inviting pressure from an Argentina side that grew into the contest. The decision ultimately backfired as the world champions found a way through.

In terms of individual performances, England had a few solid showings but nobody truly stood out. Jordan Pickford made a couple of routine saves but could do little about either goal. Reece James and Djed Spence were both lively going forward and solid defensively, with Spence producing a crucial last-ditch challenge early in the second half. Declan Rice worked tirelessly in midfield and earned a 7.5 rating, while Gordon was England's brightest spark and deserved his goal. Jude Bellingham, however, struggled to impose himself on the game and was substituted late on.

Argentina's match-winners shine

For Argentina, the story was all about Messi and his supporting cast. The little magician earned a 9/10 rating after setting up both goals, first picking out Fernandez with a perfectly weighted pass before teeing up Martinez for the winner. Cristian Romero was colossal at the back, keeping Harry Kane quiet throughout and showing leadership that has sometimes been lacking at Tottenham. Lisandro Martinez partnered him well, while Fernandez and Leandro Paredes controlled the midfield battle.

Argentina were not at their fluent best in the first half, but they grew in confidence as the game wore on. Julian Alvarez caused problems with his movement, and Alexis Mac Allister pulled the strings from deep. The only slight disappointments were Emiliano Martinez, who could have done better with Gordon's strike, and Nahuel Molina, who struggled to contain England's left side.

England's 60-year wait for a major trophy goes on, and questions will be asked about Tuchel's negative tactics after taking the lead. For now, though, all eyes turn to Sunday's final, where Messi and his team will aim to lift the World Cup once again.