A peak audience of 24 million tuned in to watch England’s 2‑1 loss to Argentina in the World Cup semi‑final, making it the most watched live TV event in five years. The BBC One and iPlayer figures were the largest for a broadcaster since the 2021 Euro 2020 final between England and Italy.

England’s opening goal came from Anthony Gordon early in the second half, but Enzo Fernández levelled with five minutes left. Lautaro Martínez’s stoppage‑time header secured Argentina’s place in a second straight final. BBC One averaged 22.1 million viewers, with an additional 12.6 million streams on iPlayer and the BBC Sport website and app.

The BBC Sport live‑coverage page was viewed more than 24.6 million times worldwide, 18.8 million in the UK. England will face France in the third‑place play‑off in Miami, while Argentina meets Spain in the final in New Jersey; both matches will air on BBC One, iPlayer, radio and the BBC Sport website and app.

BBC Director of Sport Alex Kay‑Jelski said the coverage “united millions across the UK” and praised the platform’s reach. “We’re proud to have supported fans throughout England’s World Cup journey,” he added, noting that the story of this World Cup is not over.