England captain Harry Kane described an “empty feeling in the stomach” after the national side were beaten 2-1 by Argentina in the World Cup semi-final, a result that prolongs the nation’s wait for a trophy beyond the 1966 World Cup.
Late fightback sees Argentina reach final
Anthony Gordon had put England in front in the second half, but Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernández levelled five minutes from time. Lautaro Martínez completed the turnaround in stoppage time, handing Argentina a dramatic 2-1 victory and consigning England to defeat. The match will now see Argentina progress to face Spain in the final at MetLife Stadium on Sunday.
“No words are big enough right now to overcome this empty feeling in the stomach.” — Harry Kane
Kane, reflecting on the campaign, acknowledged the pressure of expectation and a near decade-long search for what he called the “final piece of the jigsaw”. He publicly praised his teammates and promised the squad will analyse the disappointment and look for ways to improve.
Questions over managerial approach
The defeat has intensified scrutiny of manager Thomas Tuchel, who succeeded Sir Gareth Southgate, with critics pointing to a defence-minded approach and substitutions that, according to reports, backfired in the match. The loss leaves England once more having come close in a major tournament without converting that promise into silverware.
- Anthony Gordon — scored to put England ahead in the second half
- Enzo Fernández — equalised five minutes from time
- Lautaro Martínez — winner in stoppage time
For supporters in Surrey and across the country, the result will be a bitter disappointment after seven weeks of competitive fixtures and moments that had suggested England were capable of reaching another major final. Kane’s message emphasised resilience: the team must “process it and find a way to get better”.
| Event | Detail |
|---|---|
| Final score | Argentina 2 — England 1 |
| Key moments | Gordon goal; Fernández equaliser (5 minutes from time); Martínez stoppage-time winner |
| Next for England | End of World Cup campaign; post-match review and reflection |
As the nation reflects on what might have been, attention will turn to the squad’s next steps and whether Tuchel’s methods will withstand scrutiny in the aftermath of a semi-final defeat. Fans and local clubs in Surrey, many of whom followed the match closely, will now consider the implications for England football as preparations begin for future tournaments.
