Argentina reach World Cup final after 2–1 win over England
Argentina beat England 2–1, into the final
Your team are in the World Cup final. Argentina 2–1 England in the semi-final, and it was everything the build-up promised (1). England came in with Saka and Madueke, but Tuchel's side could not handle the occasion. Argentina now face Spain on Sunday in New Jersey.
Scaloni's future unresolved
Lionel Scaloni's contract runs until the end of the year, and his future beyond this tournament is not yet decided (2). The manager could leave after Sunday's final, regardless of the result. It is a conversation the federation will have once the trophy is settled.
Bellingham's quiet post-match message
Jude Bellingham posted a short reflection on social media after the semi-final loss to Argentina, though the England star kept it measured (3). No outburst, no big statement, just the look of a player processing elimination.
Piqué and Fabregas once tried to recruit Messi for Spain
Gerard Piqué and Cesc Fabregas tried to convince Lionel Messi to play for Spain instead of Argentina during his youth career (4). Ginés Meléndez, Spain's former youth coordinator, confirmed the story. Messi, of course, said no. On Sunday he faces Spain in a World Cup final.
Azpilicueta: Spain trust their identity
Cesar Azpilicueta, Spain's former captain, says Luis de la Fuente's side will not change who they are for the final (5). "Keep calm and carry on," is the mood coming out of the Spanish camp. They believe their system can deliver against Argentina.
Sources
- 1. justarsenal.com — Argentina team shocked that Tuchel didn’t use Arsenal’s stars
- 2. ge.globo.com — Fim da Scaloneta? Técnico da Argentina tem futuro indefinido; entenda a situação
- 3. ole.com.ar — El posteo que hizo Jude Bellingham tras ser eliminado por la Argentina en el Mundial 2026
- 4. rmcsport.bfmtv.com — "Nous aurions gagné 2 ou 3 Coupe du monde de plus": comment Piqué et Fabregas ont tenté de voler Messi à l'Argentine
- 5. bbc.co.uk — Keep calm and carry on - Spain trust team identity to deliver World Cup