England's 2026 World Cup dream is ended by Argentina in the semi-finals

England reached the semi-finals of the 2026 World Cup courtesy of a 2-1 success over Norway.

The Three Lions picked up seven points from their three Group L matches against Croatia, Ghana and Panama to finish at the summit and qualify for the round of 32.

England then beat DR Congo 2-1 in the first knockout round before overcoming Mexico to set up a last-eight fixture with Norway.

A 2-1 success over Norway followed, with the Three Lions facing Argentina in the semi-finals.

Anthony Gordon sent England ahead in the last-four clash, but Argentina scored twice in the final stages to secure a 2-1 win.

England World Cup 2026 road to the semi-finals

© Iconsport / PA Images

A first-placed finish in Group L earned England a clash with Congo DR, who actually finished at the top of the third-placed table, claiming four points from three Group K games.

England's last-16 opponents were Mexico, with that game ending in a 3-2 success for the Three Lions, before a 2-1 win over Norway booked a spot in the semi-finals.

Spain were waiting in the final, but it was not to be for Thomas Tuchel's team.

England will now face France in third-placed playoff

© Imago / APL

England are not yet done at the 2026 World Cup, with the Three Lions set to take on France in the third-placed playoff on Saturday.

Finishing third at the tournament would still be a good achievement for England, but the manner of their semi-final exit to Argentina will be difficult to take.