In a thrilling World Cup semi-final, Argentina edged past England with a 2-1 victory, showcasing remarkable performances on both sides. The match highlighted the talents of several players, leading to significant contributions that defined the outcome.
England Player Ratings
Jordan Pickford had limited opportunities to prevent goals but made a stunning save from González, earning a rating of 7.
Reece James returned from injury to dominate his side of the pitch, justifying his inclusion with another strong performance, rated at 7.
John Stones exhibited solid defending throughout the match until late in the game, where his lack of match fitness was evident, also rated at 7.
Marc Guéhi remained steadfast in the back line, consistently reliable but unfortunate to end up on the losing side, earning a score of 7.
Djed Spence proved his worth with a crucial tackle reminiscent of Bobby Moore, solidifying his place in the squad with a rating of 8.
Elliot Anderson had a dynamic match, contributing effectively despite receiving a yellow card for a foul on Messi, rated at 7.
Declan Rice appeared more like his usual self but was substituted as England sought to protect their lead, receiving a 6.
Morgan Rogers adapted well to an unconventional role on the right and provided a brilliant assist to Gordon, earning a 7.
Jude Bellingham started strong but struggled to maintain composure in injury time, ultimately rated at 6.
Anthony Gordon made a significant impact by scoring in the semi-final, showcasing his development with a commendable rating of 8.
Harry Kane’s long pass set up the only goal for England, but he will likely feel dissatisfied with his overall influence, rated at 5.
Substitutes: Ezri Konsa (for Gordon, 72) struggled defensively, contributing to Martínez’s equaliser, rated at 5. Dan Burn (for James, 83) failed to impress again, receiving a 5. Nico O’Reilly (for Rice, 83) could not stop Messi’s decisive cross, rated at 6. Ivan Toney (for Stones, 90+3) was unable to make an impact due to timing, rated at 6. Marcus Rashford (for Spence, 90+3) made efforts to equalize but finished with a 6.
Argentina Player Ratings
Emiliano Martínez had no chance with Gordon’s goal but was otherwise mostly untested throughout the match, rated at 6.
Nahuel Molina faced challenges from Spence and Gordon’s attacking play on the left, leading to a rating of 6.
Cristian Romero demonstrated impressive skills early on and effectively neutralized threats, earning him a solid rating of 8.
Lisandro Martínez was cautious after an early booking, and his substitution was expected, resulting in a rating of 7.
Nicolas Tagliafico had a challenging time against Rogers and was at fault for conceding the goal, rated at 5.
Leandro Paredes set the tone with a strong challenge but didn’t manage to control the midfield as usual, receiving a 5.
Enzo Fernández was close to scoring an incredible goal before netting the equalizer that broke England’s hearts, earning a commendable rating of 8.
Alexis Mac Allister came agonizingly close to scoring, hitting both posts, but showcased his best form, rated at 8.
Giuliani Simeone was active in the match but missed a clear opportunity, receiving a 6.
Lionel Messi displayed exceptional skill and agility, underscoring his legacy on such a grand stage, rated at 9.
Julián Álvarez consistently troubled the England defense, earning recognition as Messi’s successor with a rating of 8.
Substitutes: Nicolás González (for Paredes, 65) added urgency to Argentina’s play and was denied a goal by Pickford, rated at 8. Nicolás Otamendi (for L Martínez, 72) remained impressive at 38 years old, rated at 7. Gonzalo Montiel (for Molina, 72) significantly improved Argentina’s defense, also rated at 7. Rodrigo De Paul (for Simeone, 72) made a notable impact after his late introduction, rated at 8. Lautaro Martínez (for Tagliafico, 81) emerged as a hero with a crucial header, receiving an 8.
