Lionel Messi delivered a 92nd-minute cross that substitute Lautaro Martinez headed home, sending Argentina to the World Cup final and plunging England into despair. The dramatic winner, scored deep into stoppage time, ended the Three Lions' campaign in the cruellest fashion imaginable.
As Argentina celebrated their victory at the expense of England, new footage emerged showing England midfielder Jude Bellingham slapping Argentina substitute Valentin Barco on the back of the head after the final whistle. The incident, captured on camera, suggested a flashpoint in the aftermath of the crushing defeat.
“Lautaro Martinez's 92nd-minute header sends Argentina past England; Bellingham caught slapping Barco.”
England manager Thomas Tuchel has already faced scrutiny over his tactics and substitutions during the semi-final collapse, with the German coach pinpointing where he believes the blame lies for his side's late implosion. But the fallout now extends to the conduct of his players.
Bellingham, one of England's star performers throughout the tournament, was seen hitting Barco as tempers frayed following the defeat. The moment has further soured the mood around the England camp.
For Argentina, the result caps a remarkable run to the final, where they will face Spain. Lionel Messi, who delivered the decisive cross, will have a shot at another World Cup crown. The opening goal came when Messi's cross found Martinez, who was in the right place at the right time to nod the ball past England's goalkeeper.
England's players were left shell-shocked on the pitch, with some collapsing to their knees as Argentina celebrated around them. The Bellingham incident adds an unsavoury footnote to a defeat that will sting for years.
The Football Association is likely to review the footage of Bellingham's altercation with Barco. A spokesperson declined to comment when approached by the Guardian.
England now face a bronze final against France, while Argentina prepare for a showdown with Spain. But the focus remains on the manner of this defeat and the aftermath that has overshadowed it.
