England player ratings vs Argentina as one player handed 8/10 despite World Cup elimination
Argentina have advanced to the World Cup final following a dramatic 2-1 victory over England.
Anthony Gordon put the Three Lions ahead in the 55th minute and had supporters dreaming of a first World Cup final since 1966.
However, a late Argentina comeback saw Enzo Fernandez rocket in an equaliser with five minutes to go.
Lautaro Martinez scored the winner from close range two minutes from time to break English hearts and condemn them to a second World Cup semi-final defeat this decade.
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England manager Thomas Tuchel decided to switch to a back five midway through the second half, which allowed Argentina the chance to grow into the game.
Before the game, much was made of what impact Lionel Messi would have at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium. "He's a silent killer," Tuchel said: "You can never underestimate the burst of energy. You can never underestimate the willingness of the group to sacrifice for him... he is showing it on the highest level and we have to find a way to stop it and to overcome it.
"We are not here to congratulate him. We are not here to build him a throne. We are here to take the game away from him."
Messi did manage to get involved, providing assists for both goals.
England player ratings in full vs Norway
Here is how we rated the players out of 10 amid all that drama:
Jordan Pickford - 7
Made several vital saves when England were penned back in their own half. Couldn't do anything about Fernandez's brilliant equaliser. Played an important role in his fourth semi-final as number one.
Reece James - 6
Back in for his first start since the 0-0 draw with Ghana. Did his job admirably.
John Stones - 6
Didn't have much to do in the first half and ultimately, his experience wasn't enough in the second.
Marc Guehi - 6
Said pre-match that there was more pressure on Argentina as reigning world champions. Like Stones, struggled with the Argentina attacks.
Djed Spence - 8
Preferred to Nico O’Reilly and it’s becoming clear why he’s one of Thomas Tuchel’s favourites. Produced the tackle of the tournament to deny Giuliano Simeone shortly after England made it 1-0 and can leave Atlanta with his head held high.
Declan Rice - 7
Screened the defence with composure and class. Appears to have been carrying injuries throughout the World Cup, but gave a good account of himself this evening.
Elliot Anderson - 7
Won the majority of his duels after receiving the first booking of the game. Assured in the middle of the park next to Rice.
Morgan Rogers - 7
Received his first start since Panama, on the right wing rather than his preferred central position. He repaid Tuchel's faith with a perfect cross for Gordon to latch on to.
Jude Bellingham - 6
Relished the physical battle in midfield and even managed to get a rise out of Messi in the first half. Lacked that spark he's had since he set foot in the United States.
Anthony Gordon - 7
Took his goal brilliantly. Peeled away from Nahuel Molina with the endeavour that's seen him wrestle back a starting position from Marcus Rashford.
Harry Kane - 5
A poor game from the England captain. Had to do some defensive work, including clearances in his own box.
Substitutes
Ezri Konsa - 6
Part of the cavalry as England shifted to a back five. A tactic that backfired horribly.
Nico O'Reilly - 6
A similar role to Konsa. Didn't get to showcase much going forward, with England pinned back.
Dan Burn - 6
The cult hero of this World Cup was tasked with repeating his job inside the Azteca against Mexico. Didn't manage to do so.
Ivan Toney - N/A
Made his first appearance of the tournament, but didn't have much opportunity to leave an impact on the game.
Marcus Rashford - N/A
Had a promising burst down the wing to lift everyone's hopes.
Daniel Marland