Aston Villa’s four World Cup semi-finalists experienced sharply contrasting emotions as Argentina came from behind to beat England 2-1 in Atlanta.
Emiliano Martínez advanced to Sunday’s final against Spain, while Morgan Rogers, Ezri Konsa and Ollie Watkins were left reflecting on England’s late collapse.
Rogers created Anthony Gordon’s 55th-minute opener with a low delivery from the left. England then appeared close to their first men’s World Cup final since 1966.
Argentina instead turned the tie around during the closing stages. Enzo Fernández struck from outside the penalty area in the 85th minute before Lautaro Martínez headed in Lionel Messi’s cross during added time.
The Associated Press match report confirmed Argentina’s late comeback and their place in a second successive World Cup final.
Martínez remains on course for another world title
Martínez was beaten by Gordon’s controlled finish but remained composed as Argentina searched for a response.
The Villa goalkeeper will now attempt to help his country become the first nation to retain the men’s World Cup since Brazil in 1962.
His progress arrives shortly after Villa publicly ruled out a summer departure. Juventus had been linked with the 33-year-old, but the club made clear that a sale was not under consideration.
Read Aston Villa reported Villa’s firm Martínez stance before the semi-final, with his contract running until 2029.
Another World Cup final strengthens his position as one of Unai Emery’s leading players. It will also delay his return to Bodymoor Heath and leave him requiring a recovery period before rejoining pre-season.
Villa are unlikely to begrudge him that absence if he returns with another winners’ medal.
Rogers enhances reputation despite England defeat
Rogers supplied one of England’s clearest moments of quality.
The attacking midfielder found space on the left and picked out Gordon inside the area. It was a composed contribution on the biggest night of his international career.
His display offered another reminder of why he has become an important player for both Villa and England.
Rogers can carry possession through pressure, operate across several attacking positions and create chances against elite opposition. Those qualities will be central to Villa’s return to Champions League football.
The defeat will still hurt. England led until the 85th minute before losing control during the closing exchanges.
The Guardian’s player ratings also highlighted Argentina’s midfield influence and the impact made by their substitutes.
Konsa and Watkins face third-place play-off
Konsa was involved as England attempted to protect their advantage, while Watkins remained among Thomas Tuchel’s attacking options.
The pair have experienced different tournaments. Konsa received meaningful minutes during England’s run, while Watkins found opportunities harder to secure amid strong competition across the front line.
England’s campaign is not yet over. Rogers, Konsa and Watkins are due to face France in Saturday’s third-place play-off rather than immediately returning to Birmingham.
As Read Aston Villa explained before kick-off, Villa were guaranteed a player in the final because Martínez faced three club team-mates in Atlanta.
Martínez now has the chance to lift the trophy. Villa’s England trio must recover quickly for one final international assignment before their attention turns back towards Emery and the new season.
