On July 16th, Beijing time, in the semi-final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, Argentina achieved a dramatic comeback and defeated England 2-1 to advance to the final. According to Reuters, Argentine coach Lionel Scaglia said after the match that his team showed true strength in adversity and demonstrated everything that football should represent.
In this match, England’s player Gordon scored the first goal at the 55th minute, helping England take the lead. However, Argentina quickly caught up and continued to challenge England’s defense. At the 85th minute, Enzo scored a far-post goal from outside the penalty area, tying the score for Argentina. Just over 90 minutes into the match, Lautaro scored a header from within the penalty area, giving Argentina the victory in this crucial match.
Scarone said, "I truly believe that this team can show their true strength under pressure. When we are in trouble and the opponent hesitates a little, we see opportunities and give it our all. That's what this team brings to me."
In the match between Argentina and England, Scolari watched from the sidelines. IC photo
Scarrozzini praised that, after taking the lead in England, the Argentine players played football in its true essence. "After the other team scored, we showed everything we believe football should represent. Football is not just tactics, strategies, or beautiful goals. Everything we believed was reflected in the last 40 minutes."
He added, “I’m happy that the team fought until the last moment, which is very important to me. Even if we are ultimately eliminated, we know that we have done our best.”
Regarding the final match, Sculloni said that the Argentine team will give everything they have to win.
Argentina has advanced to the finals in two consecutive World Cups, with only one match left before achieving a third consecutive title. In the final match scheduled for July 20th Beijing time, Argentina will face Spain.
