Argentina reached a second straight World Cup final after a 2-1 win over England in the 2026 semi-final, settled deep into stoppage time by Lionel Messi and Lautaro Martinez. England had gone ahead through Anthony Gordon after Morgan Rogers supplied the cross, but Enzo Fernandez brought Argentina level before Messi delivered a 92nd-minute ball for Martinez to head home. The defending champions will now face Spain in the final.

The closing scenes brought fresh controversy. Jude Bellingham appeared to slap Valentin Barco after the final whistle, while Argentina players including Cristian Romero and Giovani Lo Celso displayed a Falklands banner during the post-match celebrations. Lisandro Martinez was also pictured holding it, and the incident could yet bring FIFA sanctions. There were arrests too after alleged fights involving England and Argentina fans outside Atlanta Stadium.

England’s elimination left familiar questions in its wake. Harry Kane, who scored six goals on the run to the last four, addressed his international future after the defeat, while Thomas Tuchel said he had no regrets over the campaign.

Away from the World Cup, the strongest transfer move came from Bournemouth, who are close to signing Antonio Silva for more than €30 million. Napoli also made a first formal offer to Boca Juniors for Exequiel Zeballos worth just under €10 million after agreeing personal terms.

There was movement off the field in Italy as Paolo Maldini was appointed technical director and Andrea Pirlo emerged as the leading candidate for the head coach role. Separately, the Milan Public Prosecutor dismissed the case involving former referee designator Gianluca Rocchi, his deputy Andrea Gervasoni and Inter.