England captain Harry Kane expressed profound disappointment after his team's 2-1 defeat to defending champions Argentina in the World Cup semi-finals on Wednesday. The Three Lions were minutes away from their first men's final since 1966 before Lionel Messi engineered a stunning comeback in Atlanta. Main Developments Anthony Gordon's strike had put England ahead, but Argentina responded swiftly. Messi set up Enzo Fernandez for a long-range equalizer, then delivered a pinpoint cross for Lautaro Martinez's stoppage-time winner. Kane told the BBC he was "gutted for the boys, gutted for everyone — the team, the staff, the fans." He acknowledged England tried to "hold on" after taking the lead, admitting "at this level, that is not enough." Read also: Broadcasters Get New Rules to Stop Sexualising Female Athletes The Bayern Munich forward, who scored six goals in the tournament, described facing "wave after wave" of Argentine attacks. Despite players "putting blocks in," England could not withstand the pressure. Kane said the game plan was not to defend after scoring, but the team lost momentum after Argentina's equalizer. Background England have now reached at least the semi-final stage in four of their last five major tournaments, yet have not won a major trophy since the 1966 World Cup. This defeat adds to a pattern of near-misses under manager Thomas Tuchel. Kane, who turns 33 later this month, has been a central figure in England's recent tournament runs. His six goals in this World Cup continued his strong scoring form, but the semi-final loss leaves another trophy opportunity unfulfilled. Why It Matters This defeat extends England's 60-year wait for a men's World Cup title, a drought that has become a defining narrative for a generation of players. The team's inability to close out matches against elite opponents raises questions about tactical approach under pressure. Kane's age also introduces uncertainty about England's future. The captain has refused to commit to the next World Cup in four years, though he noted Lionel Messi's continued excellence at age 39 as inspiration. What's Next Kane plans to take his international future "year by year," emphasizing his love for representing England. The team will regroup for Euro 2028 qualifying, with Kane likely to feature if he maintains his current form. For Argentina, they advance to the World Cup final, with Messi continuing his remarkable tournament that has already produced eight goals. The defending champions will face the winner of the other semi-final.