England vs Argentina: Player Ratings from 2026 World Cup Semifinal Thriller

Argentina appeared moments away from elimination in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinal, trailing England following Anthony Gordon's early second-half goal. Yet, the defending champions clung on, sparked by Lionel Messi, who orchestrated a stunning turnaround with two assists that sent Argentina to the final with a 2-1 win.

Messi set up goals for Enzo Fernandez, who unleashed a powerful long-range shot, and Lautaro Martinez, who came off the bench to clinch victory. England, under Thomas Tuchel, collapsed defensively after going ahead, retreating too soon and inviting relentless pressure that Messi exploited expertly.

Below are live ratings assessing every player’s impact from kickoff until the final whistle at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA.

Final Score

England 1 - 2 Argentina

England Starting XI (4-2-3-1)

Goalkeeper: Jordan Pickford (6)Right-back: Reece James (6)Center-backs: John Stones (6), Marc Guehi (7)Left-back: Djed Spence (9)Central Midfielders: Declan Rice (5), Elliot Anderson (8)Right Winger: Morgan Rogers (6)Attacking Midfielder: Jude Bellingham (7)Left Winger: Anthony Gordon (7)Striker: Harry Kane (5)

Argentina Starting XI (4-4-2)

Goalkeeper: Emi Martinez (6)Right-back: Nahuel Molina (7)Center-backs: Cristian Romero (9), Lisandro Martinez (6)Left-back: Nicolas Tagliafico (8)Midfielders: Giuliano Simeone (4), Leandro Paredes (7), Alexis Mac Allister (6), Enzo Fernandez (8)Forwards: Lionel Messi (8), Julian Alvarez (6)

England Player Performances

Jordan Pickford had little work early but made key saves including a stunning stop on Nico Gonzalez’s header. Yet, he was beaten by the late game-winner and arguably should have come out for the decisive cross.

Reece James started well, pushing forward and maintaining accuracy on passes, but faded after England’s goal as the team retreated. Djed Spence stood out with impressive dribbling and crucial defensive tackles, earning the highest rating on his side.

Marc Guehi was solid at the back and precise with passing, though England’s defensive collapse overshadowed his contributions. Midfielders Elliot Anderson and Jude Bellingham battled hard, with Anderson particularly active despite being targeted by fouls.

Anthony Gordon scored England’s opener with a well-timed run and assist from Morgan Rogers, but his substitution in the 72nd minute coincided with England’s downfall. Harry Kane struggled to find influence, barely touching the ball in dangerous areas.

Key Substitutes

• Ezri Konsa replaced Gordon but was unable to halt Argentina’s momentum and was beaten for the winning goal.
• Dan Burn and Nico O'Reilly entered late with minimal impact.
• Marcus Rashford and Ivan Toney came on during stoppage time but couldn’t turn the tide.

Thomas Tuchel’s Tactics

Tuchel’s decision to withdraw Gordon and sit deep with over 20 minutes left proved disastrous. England’s initial resilience gave way to a passive approach that allowed Argentina to seize control and mount their comeback. The timing of the defensive substitutions invited pressure that England failed to handle, squandering a clear path to the final.

Argentina Player Performances

Emi Martinez managed crosses confidently and had little to do save a harmless shot. Cristian Romero was a rock at center-back, making numerous defensive interventions and disrupting England’s attacks.

Nahuel Molina struggled against Spence and Gordon but contributed with a dangerous cross. Nicolas Tagliafico effectively contained England’s wide threats and brought physicality to Argentina’s defense.

Giuliano Simeone was erratic and fouled frequently, while Leandro Paredes added toughness in midfield before being replaced to inject more attacking energy. Alexis Mac Allister broke up play but lacked sharpness going forward.

Enzo Fernandez delivered the equalizer with a powerful strike from outside the box after a mixed performance. Lionel Messi grew into the match, drawing fouls, creating chances, and assisting both goals with precision.

Julian Alvarez linked play well but failed to make a decisive impact in front of goal.

Impact Substitutes

• Nico Gonzalez helped keep possession and pressed high.
• Gonzalo Montiel provided fresh legs and attacking support on the flank.
• Nicolas Otamendi maintained composure in defense with perfect passing.
• Rodrigo De Paul bolstered midfield control after replacing Simeone.
• Lautaro Martinez came on late and scored the winner with a header from Messi’s cross.

Lionel Scaloni’s Adjustments

Scaloni’s side appeared second-best for much of the game, relying heavily on physicality and fouls. After falling behind, his patience paid off as he encouraged more risk-taking. The introduction of Lautaro Martinez proved decisive, complementing Messi’s creativity and turning the tide in Argentina’s favor.