England lose World Cup semi-final to Argentina after late collapse

England lost to Argentina in the World Cup semi-final after a late collapse that left them trailing in stoppage time. The result ended their campaign and prevented a first men's final appearance since 1966. England had led after 55 minutes before Argentina scored the winner three minutes into added time.

Campaign review England reached the semi-final after victories that included a 2-1 quarter-final win over Norway and a group-stage win against Mexico. Their 14 goals in the tournament came mostly from two players. Captain Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham scored 12 of those goals. Other contributors were Marcus Rashford and Anthony Gordon.

" England held 12 percent possession in the period after taking the lead against Argentina. The team relied on individual moments rather than sustained control against stronger opponents. Several players were unavailable due to illness or injury. John Stones, aged 32, remained a regular starter.

Midfield options included players described as solid but not dominant in possession. The loss adds to prior near-misses that include two European final defeats and a 2018 World Cup semi-final exit.