ATLANTA — Argentina sealed a dramatic semifinal fightback against England at Mercedes-Benz Stadium with two goals in the final five minutes to clinch a 2-1 win and book a World Cup final clash with Spain on Sunday.
The reigning world champions, who won their third title in Qatar four years ago, looked set to be eliminated with England leading well into the dying stages following a second-half goal from Anthony Gordon.
England’s failure to hold onto their lead means the 1966 world champions’ wait for a second World Cup final appearance goes on.
With their grip on the World Cup loosening, Argentina dominated as they poured forward in search of an equalizer.
Lionel Scaloni’s side were frustrated by poor finishing and the heroics of England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford who made two crucial saves to keep the Three Lions ahead.
Pickford’s first save was a world-class effort to keep out Nico Gonzalez in the 69th minute after after the Argentina midfielder had connected with Messi’s pinpoint cross.
And Everton number one Pickford was the hero again seven minutes later when saved from Alexis Mac Allister, moments after the Liverpool player had struck the post with another effort.
But Pickford could do nothing on 86 minutes when Enzo Fernández levelled the scores with a stunning shot from 20 yards.
And after Mac Allister stuck the post again in the 90th minute, Lionel Messi’s cross to the far post was met by substitute Lautaro Martínez, who headed the winning goal into the net from close range.
