England’s hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup final were ended by Argentina after a dramatic 2-1 semi-final defeat, with three England players with Nigerian roots among the unused substitutes throughout the encounter.
Bukayo Saka, Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze, who all had the option of playing for Nigeria through their heritage before committing their international futures to England, were not included in Thomas Tuchel’s starting lineup against the reigning world champions.
Madueke had previously featured during England’s World Cup campaign, while Saka and Eze remained part of Tuchel’s squad options.
England took the lead in the second half when Anthony Gordon converted Morgan Rogers’ cross with a quick finish in the 55th minute.
However, Argentina responded strongly, with Enzo Fernandez equalising in the 85th minute after being set up by Lionel Messi.
Argentina completed the comeback deep into stoppage time when Messi delivered a cross that allowed Lautaro Martinez to score a late header, securing a 2-1 victory and a place in the World Cup final.
The result meant Saka, Madueke and Eze could only watch from the bench as England’s tournament ended at the semi-final stage, while Argentina continued their pursuit of another major international title.
Wale Adejumo
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