England player ratings as Three Lions suffer World Cup heartbreak against Argentina

Harry Kane (9) of England gestures after conceding a goal during the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinal match between England and Argentina at Atlanta Stadium
England came so close but fell apart late on (Picture: Evrim Aydin/Anadolu via Getty Images)

England have suffered more World Cup heartbreak after losing to Argentina in a dramatic semi-final in Atlanta.

Anthony Gordon’s second-half goal looked to have the Three Lions on course for their biggest World Cup victory in 60 years.

But late goals from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez ensured La Albiceleste are heading to another final.

In a tense and sometimes downright nasty battle with the defending world champions, England stood tall but the pressure proved too much in the end.

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ENGLAND PLAYER RATINGS OUT OF 10

Jordan Pickford – 6

Coped well with Argentina’s pressure on corners and bar a few loose passes out from the back early on, coped well. Showed brilliant reactions to deny Nico Gonzalez just before the second-half hydration break but could have perhaps been better positioned for Argentina’s second.

Reece James – 6

Not his most adventurous performance but did what was asked of him. Was replaced late on.

John Stones – 7

An experienced presence at the back who led the England backline masterfully after their goal. Alive to everything Argentina threw up until those late goals.

England v Argentina: Semi Final - FIFA World Cup 2026
Stones a beast at the back (Picture: Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Marc Guehi – 7

Dealt with the nuisance that was Giuliano Simeone calmly and professionally.

Djed Spence – 9

Switched on and aggressive down the left, forcing Argentine mistakes going forward and committed at the back. His challenge on Simeone shortly after Gordon’s opener was as good as any goal.

Declan Rice – 6

Looked fitter after recovering from illness and was well up for the fight in midfield, growing into the game as it wore on.

Elliot Anderson – 7

Was a magnet for winning fouls in the scrappy opening stages, more than holding his own in those bruising midfield battles. Booked for taking out Messi towards the end of the first-half.

England  v Argentina  -World Cup
Anderson excellent in midfield (Picture: Rico Brouwer/Soccrates/Getty Images)

Morgan Rogers – 7

Came in for Noni Madueke on the right, offering more power than the Arsenal man and produced the wonderful assist for Gordon’s goal.

Jude Bellingham – 7

Bursting runs through the middle caused problems with Argentina unable to deal with his strength and speed.

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JULY 15: Jude Bellingham #10 of England competes for the ball against Cristian Romero #13 of Argentina during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Semi Final match between England and Argentina at Atlanta Stadium on July 15, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Another dominant performance from Bellingham (Picture: Getty Images)

Anthony Gordon – 7

A quiet performance before the biggest moment of his life after 55 minutes. A brilliant run into the box to latch onto Rogers’ cross and produced the deft finish needed.

Harry Kane – 6

Not involved in an awful lot but worked tirelessly for the cause.

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