​The 2026 FIFA World Cup is now one step away from its final, and England’s dream has ended in the cruellest possible fashion.The Three Lions took on reigning champions Argentina in Atlanta in a semi-final loaded with history, tension and individual star power.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementFor Real Madrid fans, the focus was naturally on Jude Bellingham, who had already produced some of the tournament’s biggest moments.England took the lead in the 55th minute through Anthony Gordon, and for a while, it looked like Thomas Tuchel’s side might make it through to the final.However, Argentina came from behind to beat England 2-1, with Enzo Fernandez equalising in the 85th minute before Lautaro Martinez scored the winner in stoppage time.Lionel Messi assisted both goals as the defending champions set up a final against Spain.Messi’s Argentina prevailed over Bellingham and England. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementAfter going in front, instead of pushing for a second goal, rather inexplicably, England retreated. They went into a shell and gave the Albiceleste and Messi a chance to come back into the game, which they took.From a Real Madrid perspective, this was a painful night. Bellingham’s tournament had been full of authority, goals and personality, but this was a semi-final where England’s overall approach left him with too little opportunity to influence the game.Bellingham did not have the kind of night Real Madrid fans have become used to seeing from him in this World Cup.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThat does not mean he was poor. It means the game moved away from him. England spent too much of the second half defending deep, clearing their lines and waiting for Argentina’s pressure to end. It never did.For a player like Bellingham, that is a problem. His best performances come when he can crash into the box, combine between the lines and press aggressively.There was a moment late in the game when the Real Madrid star tried to carry the ball forward but was crowded out by four Argentina players.That moment felt symbolic. Bellingham wanted to drag England up the pitch, but there was no structure around him.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementFor Los Blancos, the frustration is obvious. This was not a match where Bellingham failed to show personality.Bellingham could not inspire England to a win. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)It was a match where England failed to give their most decisive midfielder enough of the ball in the zones where he can hurt opponents.There was also the emotional edge of facing Messi.Bellingham and Messi were two of the central figures in the pre-match narrative, but by the end, it was Argentina’s captain who had the final say with two late assists.That should sting Bellingham, because players of his level do not enjoy watching someone else own the final act.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementHis World Cup ends in disappointment, but not without i