England defeated by Argentina in the World Cup semi-final
Why it matters
The World Cup semi-final attracted an extraordinary audience of 24 million viewers, highlighting the huge interest in football nationwide. England's defeat, despite a promising start with Anthony Gordon's goal, underlines the challenges the team faces in the context of international competition. This match will have a significant impact on the season and England's approach to future tournaments, including the 2026 World Cup.
Key points
- England defeated by Argentina in the World Cup semi-final.
- The World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina reached an audience of 24 million on the BBC.
- World Cup 2026: An audience of 24 million tune in to watch England's defeat against Argentina - BBC Sport.
A peak of 24 million viewers followed England's defeat by Argentina in the World Cup semi-final, marking the highest viewership for a televised event in five years. The BBC and its iPlayer service have recorded their highest audiences since the Euro 2020 final between England and Italy, which took place in 2021, was broadcast. England's 2-1 defeat in Atlanta averaged 22.1 million viewers on BBC One and iPlayer, plus 12.6 million views on the iPlayer service and the BBC Sport website and app. Anthony Gordon opened the scoring for England early in the second half, but five minutes before the end Enzo Fernández equalized for Argentina. Lautaro Martinez's header in deep injury time allowed defending champions Argentina to reach a World Cup final for the second time in a row. BBC Sport's live coverage page on the site and app has amassed over 24.6 million views worldwide, including 18.8 million in the UK. England will play France in the third place final in Miami on Saturday at 10pm BST. Argentina will face Spain in the final in New Jersey on Sunday at 8pm. Both matches will be broadcast live on BBC One, iPlayer, BBC Radio and the BBC Sport website and app. "Last night's match may not have delivered the result English fans had hoped for, but it was another occasion that united millions of people in the UK in support of the team," said Alex Kay-Jelski, BBC sports director. “The extraordinary reach of our coverage across TV, iPlayer, BBC Sounds, the BBC Sport site and app and across social networks reflects the enduring power of major sporting events to create shared experiences on a large scale. We are incredibly proud to have stood alongside audiences throughout England's World Cup journey, bringing every moment to fans in the UK. Even though England's campaign has ended, the story of this World Cup is not over.”
What happens now
England now prepare for the third place final against France, an opportunity to redeem themselves and end the tournament with a positive result. On the other hand, Argentina will have the opportunity to defend the title against Spain, a match that promises to be exciting. Both matches will be crucial for their respective national teams, influencing their future prospects in international football.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the semi-final between England and Argentina?
England were defeated by Argentina with a score of 2-1.
What was the impact of England's defeat on the tournament standings?
The defeat left England playing in the third place final.
Who scored the goals for England and Argentina in the semi-final?
Anthony Gordon scored for England, while Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martinez scored for Argentina.
When will England play the third place final?
England will play France in the third place final on Saturday at 10pm BST.
When will the final between Argentina and Spain take place?
The final between Argentina and Spain will take place on Sunday at 8pm in New Jersey.
