Martinez: England made a mistake by sitting back after taking the lead

Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez reflected on the 2-1 semifinal victory over England at the 2026 World Cup, insisting the opposition helped his side turn the game around. “It was crazy. I think we played really well in the first half, we dominated. We know how strong they are on set pieces and physically. I’ve been playing there for 16 years, I know them very well.” According to the shot-stopper, Argentina never lost belief after conceding, and England’s tactical shift allowed them to seize control. “We moved the ball well. They scored from a cross into the box when there was only one player in there. We’ve been in comebacks before. They started dropping deeper, and that gave us an advantage out wide. The key moment for us was when Messi moved to the flank.” Martinez is convinced England made a tactical error by changing their approach after going ahead. “We could feel them retreating, not pushing forward. Sometimes, even when you’re winning, you still have to push. You can’t change the game plan. I think that’s what they did — they brought on extra defenders,” the Argentine said. Argentina will face Spain in the World Cup final on July 19.