Argentina beats England 2-1 in World Cup semifinal with Lautaro Martinez stoppage-time winner, sparking tears and Tuchel criticism

Foul-filled first half gives way to a frantic finish

The semifinal in Atlanta started chaotically, with the first half dominated by repeated fouls and confrontations rather than fluid football. Neither side found a rhythm in a period that saw little attacking quality. The tempo lifted after the break, and both teams created chances. England took the lead, but Argentina equalised to set up a tense finale. The match remained deadlocked until deep into added time, when Argentina’s Joker Lautaro Martinez struck to send his side to the World Cup final.

Lautaro Martinez breaks down

After the final whistle, match-winner Lautaro Martinez appeared for a television interview but could barely speak. Fighting back tears, he tried to explain the emotions behind his goal, recalling his difficult upbringing and the sacrifices made by his parents. The striker moved from Racing Avellaneda with very little, and the moment immediately took him back to those early struggles.

I always dreamed of this, ever since my father bought me my first football boots. When I went to Racing Avellaneda, I could afford nothing. This is worth more than the goal to me. More than a final. I have my two children here, they changed my life. I enjoy everything. I enjoy my daughter. I am a man, and I enjoy life.

Tuchel’s decisions draw fire

England’s early second-half lead was cancelled out after manager Thomas Tuchel made substitutions that English media branded costly. The Sun described the aftermath as a “World of pain,” and German newspaper Süddeutsche Zeitung captured the mood with a headline that asked, “What a mess, Tuchel!” England captain Harry Kane and midfielder Jude Bellingham both underperformed, while Lionel Messi was central to Argentina’s fightback, influencing the match and driving the team forward.

What a mess, Tuchel!

Schweinsteiger salutes Argentina’s identity

Former World Cup winner Bastian Schweinsteiger, working as a pundit for German broadcaster ARD, watched with a mix of melancholy and admiration. He had beaten Argentina in the 2014 final but now saw a side playing with a different kind of spirit. Schweinsteiger credited head coach Lionel Scaloni with creating an almost supernatural bond between the players and their supporters.

This pride that the players play with, for the fans, is incredible. It was deserved. It was tough again, but they turned the game around once more. Unbelievable. That force that Argentina created: hats off!

Spain awaits in New Jersey

The victory sets up a final against Spain on Sunday in New Jersey. Spanish media have quickly christened the clash “the finalissima,” and Argentina will now attempt to carry the emotional momentum of the semifinal turnaround into the showpiece match. For England, the inquest into Tuchel’s tactical choices is already underway.