The England 1-2 Argentina World Cup semi-final delivered a dramatic clash, with player ratings revealing standout performances from both sides. England’s Anthony Gordon and Djed Spence earned top marks, but Argentina’s resilience secured their place in the final.
England Player Ratings: Key Performers and Weak Links
England started strong, with Anthony Gordon scoring a brilliant goal and earning an 8/10 rating. Djed Spence also impressed with a Bobby Moore-esque tackle, earning an 8/10. However, defensive lapses in the final minutes cost England dearly.
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Defensive Issues Surface Late
Substitute Ezri Konsa was at fault for Argentina’s winning goal, receiving a 5/10 rating. John Stones looked solid until his lack of game time caught up, while Marc Guéhi remained reliable throughout.
Argentina Player Ratings: Martinez and Romero Shine
Argentina’s Emiliano Martínez was largely a spectator but made key saves when needed. Cristian Romero set the tone early with a physical duel against Jude Bellingham. The team’s collective effort secured the win.
Impact Substitutions Turn the Tide
Argentina’s depth proved decisive, with substitutes contributing to the winning goal. England’s changes, including Dan Burn and Nico O’Reilly, failed to stem the tide.
| Player | Rating | Key Moment |
|---|---|---|
| Anthony Gordon (ENG) | 8 | Scored England’s goal |
| Djed Spence (ENG) | 8 | Brilliant tackle on Simeone |
| Emiliano Martínez (ARG) | 6 | Solid but untested |
| Cristian Romero (ARG) | 7 | Physical presence early on |
Key Takeaways from the Match
- Anthony Gordon has come of age in this tournament, scoring in a World Cup semi-final.
- England’s lack of depth in defense proved costly in the final 10 minutes.
- Argentina’s tactical substitutions changed the game’s momentum.
- Jude Bellingham struggled to influence the match compared to earlier rounds.
- Jordan Pickford’s sensational save from González was a highlight despite the loss.
FAQ
Who was the best player in the England vs Argentina semi-final?
Anthony Gordon and Djed Spence both earned 8/10 ratings for England, with Gordon scoring and Spence making a crucial tackle.
Why did England lose to Argentina?
England’s defensive substitutions backfired, with Ezri Konsa at fault for the winning goal. Lack of game time for key players also contributed.
What were the final ratings for Harry Kane?
Harry Kane received a 5/10 rating, as he failed to make a significant impact despite providing the assist for England’s goal.