Lisandro Martínez helped Argentina reach a second successive World Cup final as the holders came from behind to beat England 2-1 in Atlanta.
The Manchester United defender started at centre-back and produced several important clearances during a tense semi-final at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Martínez was booked during a physical first half, but Argentina largely kept Thomas Tuchel’s side away from goal before the interval.
England took the lead after 55 minutes. Morgan Rogers delivered from the left and Anthony Gordon converted beyond Emiliano Martínez.
Argentina responded by taking control of possession and increasing the pressure. Enzo Fernández equalised with a powerful strike from outside the area in the 85th minute.
Lionel Messi then crossed for Lautaro Martínez to head home the winner during stoppage time. The Associated Press match report confirmed both late goals were created by the Argentina captain.
United players experience contrasting semi-final
Marcus Rashford was introduced during the closing stages as England attempted to recover, but the forward could not create an equaliser.
Kobbie Mainoo remained an unused substitute and is still waiting for his first appearance at the tournament.
Martínez will now face Spain in Sunday’s final as Argentina attempt to retain the trophy they won in Qatar.
His progress also continues an encouraging tournament after the injury problems which disrupted his recent United seasons. As Read Man Utd reported before the semi-final, Martínez had featured regularly throughout Argentina’s run.
Rashford and Mainoo remain with England for Saturday’s third-place play-off against France before returning to Michael Carrick’s Manchester United squad.
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