England Extends 62-Year Trophy Drought After 2026 World Cup Semifinal Loss to Argentina
Updated
Updated · FOX Sports · Jul 17
England Extends 62-Year Trophy Drought After 2026 World Cup Semifinal Loss to Argentina
3 articles · Updated · FOX Sports · Jul 17
Summary
England's 1-0 lead vanished in a semifinal defeat to Argentina, leaving the Three Lions without a major men's trophy since 1966.
Just 36% possession underscored the gap: England struggled to keep the ball after going ahead, while Argentina played through pressure and regained control.
Thomas Tuchel has drawn fresh criticism for a defensive second half, but Harry Kane said the instruction after the goal was to push for another rather than sit back.
Sunday's final will pit Argentina against Spain, while England head to Miami as clear underdogs against France in the bronze-medal match.
Is England's defensive strategy a tactical masterclass or a risky invitation for a dramatic Argentine comeback?
Will Scaloni's 'super-unit' break England's low block, or will Tuchel's cautious approach lead them to victory?
2026 World Cup Semifinal: England’s Lead Over Argentina Amid Tactical, Physical, and Emotional Battles
Overview
England has taken a crucial lead in their World Cup semifinal against Argentina, thanks to a well-worked goal by Anthony Gordon. The play began with Declan Rice flicking the ball to the wing, where Morgan Rogers delivered a precise cross into the box. Gordon seized the moment, getting his right foot on the ball and guiding it past Argentina’s goalkeeper, Emiliano Martinez. This breakthrough has set the tone for a tense and intense match, with Argentina now pushing hard to equalize as both teams battle for a place in the final.