Enzo Fernández scored a stunning late equaliser as Argentina came from behind to beat England 2-1 and reach the World Cup final.
Anthony Gordon put England ahead in the 55th minute after meeting Morgan Rogers’ low cross inside the penalty area.
Thomas Tuchel’s side then dropped deeper as Argentina increased the pressure. Jordan Pickford made several important saves, but the defending champions eventually found a way through.
Lionel Messi worked a short corner to Fernández in the 85th minute. The Chelsea midfielder took one touch before driving a powerful, swerving shot beyond Pickford and into the far corner.
Lautaro Martínez completed the comeback in added time when he headed in Messi’s cross from close range. Argentina will now face Spain in Sunday’s final after securing a second successive appearance in the showpiece.
Chelsea team-mates experience contrasting nights
Reece James started at right-back for England after recovering from the injury which disrupted his tournament.
The Chelsea captain played 82 minutes and left the pitch with England still leading. Dan Burn replaced him shortly before Fernández produced the equaliser.
James had returned from injury during the quarter-final victory over Norway after missing three matches. Trevoh Chalobah remained an unused substitute against Argentina.
Fernández’s latest goal continues an impressive World Cup campaign. He had already scored a late winner against Egypt earlier in the knockout stages.
The midfielder’s importance to Chelsea also remains clear. Read Chelsea reported before the semi-final that Xabi Alonso wants Fernández to remain at Stamford Bridge and views him as a central part of his plans.
The Associated Press match report confirmed Fernández’s equaliser and Martínez’s stoppage-time winner.
Fernández will now prepare to face Spain, while James, Chalobah and England meet France in Saturday’s third-place play-off.
