England left everything on the field in their semi-final match against Argentina in Atlanta, Georgia on Wednesday afternoon.
However, despite leading 1–0 at the end of the second half, Argentina scored in the 85th minute to tie the match and then scored another goal in stoppage time.
Lionel Messi assisted both goals, helping Argentina earn a 2-1 win, punching their ticket to Sunday’s World Cup final and setting up a match against Spain.
Argentina (+205) went 2-1 up in stoppage time 😱
2 goals in just 6.5 minutes
England in full recession pic.twitter.com/vBqAIk8vn0– Action Network (@ActionNetworkHQ) 15 July 2026
For England, it was another opportunity where they missed, and star striker Harry Kane reflected on the heartbreaking defeat in an emotional message on social media on Thursday.
“There are no words big enough right now to explain away this empty feeling in the stomach. We were so close, really close to another final but it wasn’t enough. We have given everything over the last seven weeks and it’s hard to fall short!” Ken said on X.
“I know the expectations are very high and rightfully so, we’ve been knocking on the door for eight years but are missing that final piece of the puzzle again! This is where we have to step away, process it and find a way to get better. I’m very proud of the boys and what we’ve shown throughout this tournament – some tough games and tough environments that we’ve overcome.”
Kane said it was a memorable run that will stay with the players and fans for a long time. He elaborated further, thanking supporters for their support over the past month.
Kane said, “Some memories that will stay with us players and I’m sure your fans for a long time! Going for glory doesn’t mean you’ll achieve it.” “You have to fight for it, lose, pick yourself up and go again, and that’s what we’ll do. There’s no other way than to keep the faith and keep trying.
“Thank you to every single fan who traveled and showed their support in the stadiums. Thank you to every single fan back home for believing in us. Thank you to the boys and staff for everything you gave. As always, win or lose, we learn and move forward again!”
There are no words big enough right now to take away that empty feeling in your stomach. We were close, really close to another final but it was not enough. We’ve given it our all over the last 7 weeks and it’s hard to fall short!
I know expectations are high and rightfully so… pic.twitter.com/exz5Pe95hb– Harry Kane (@HKane) 16 July 2026
England were on the rise at the right times in wins over DR Congo, Mexico and Norway, but they were too passive late on against an Argentina team who were far too comfortable playing out from the back.
Yet, despite the defeat, England will have another chance to take the field when they face France in the third-place match on Saturday evening – a bittersweet game for both teams.
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