Theatre-of-dreams moment turned into theatre-of-horror in Atlanta as England's aspirations for their first World Cup final since 1966 were brutally extinguished by Argentina's jaw-dropping late double salvo. Thomas Tuchel's team had seemingly secured the dream ticket after Anthony Gordon's second-half opener, but two devastating goals in injury time from Enzo Fernández and substitute Lautaro Martínez sent the South American colossus marching to the final.
The match was an emotionally-charged, edge-of-the-seat thriller from the off, with both teams displaying a ferocity that had fans on tenterhooks. England appeared to be in the driving seat initially, with Djed Spence at left-back showing flashes of brilliance as he supported the attack. However, clear-cut chances were in short supply in a first half dominated by midfield battles and defensive solidity.
The deadlock was finally shattered shortly after the interval when Anthony Gordon slotted home, sending England's hopes soaring to new heights – only for Argentina to stage one of their most epic fightbacks. Despite being written off at times during this World Cup campaign, Lionel Messi's team showed the champion spirit that has earned them their reputation as a force to be reckoned with.
The equaliser arrived in the 86th minute, following relentless pressure from Argentina. A short corner conjured up by the great Messi created the space for Enzo Fernández to unleash a thunderbolt drive from outside the area that found the net. The momentum then decisively shifted, and in stoppage time, the knockout blow was struck. Lionel Messi delivered a pinpoint cross from the right, and Lautaro Martínez, who had come on as a substitute, ghosted into space at the far post to head home, sending Argentina's fans into delirium.
The defeat will undoubtedly lead to Tuchel being put under the microscope for his tactical decisions, particularly his late switch to a back five in an attempt to preserve the lead – a strategy that ultimately backfired. England are left with nothing but what-ifs from a tournament run that promised so much and delivered so little.