Argentina shattered England’s World Cup dreams in Atlanta, scoring twice in the final five minutes to come from behind and win the semi‑final 2‑1. As the final whistle blew, Lisandro Martínez and Giovani Lo Celso held up a banner reading “Las Malvinas son Argentinas”, referencing the 1982 Falklands war in which 649 Argentinians and 255 Britons died. The banner – it was unclear where it came from – drew immediate attention, though Fifa’s stadium code of conduct bans political paraphernalia. Argentina will face Spain in Sunday’s final in New Jersey, seeking a second straight World Cup title.
England had led through a first‑half goal, but defensive substitutions by manager Thomas Tuchel proved costly. The German, who signed a new two‑year deal in February after starting his role in January 2025, faced heavy criticism. In his post‑match press conference, Tuchel refused to take full responsibility, saying: “We were not active enough in any structure … I think of it as a football matter and I’m part of that.” He confirmed he will stay on, with a contract until the 2028 home Euros. “The World Cup is not over,” he said. “There is still a match to play. Then we keep on going.” England will face France in the third‑place play‑off in Miami.
“Argentina beat England 2-1 in World Cup semi-final, celebrating with a Falklands banner; Tuchel stays for 2028 Euros.”
FA chief executive Mark Bullingham described the defeat as “heartbreaking”. He thanked the fans and said: “The players and Thomas gave it everything today.” Among those fans was the Prince of Wales, who was said to be “gutted” by the loss. Meanwhile, Argentina midfielder Rodrigo De Paul addressed the political undertones: “We understand it’s a football game that transcends … we sing songs about our Malvinas heroes, mainly to remember them, but we have to understand that it’s a football match.” Argentina’s security minister, Alejandra Monteoliva, said 1,600 officers would be deployed for the final, adding: “We want the celebration to be peaceful.”