England's World Cup stars were reportedly left 'stunned' by Thomas Tuchel's tactical approach during the Three Lions' 2-1 World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina. England had one foot in the World Cup final heading into the final five minutes of normal time after Anthony Gordon gave England the lead in the 55th minute.
Gordon's Opener and Defensive Collapse
The Barcelona winger broke the deadlock with a superb late run into the box, guiding Morgan Rogers' cross into the net to give England a deserved lead. And yet after the goal, England crumbled, dropping back in an attempt to soak up pressure. Argentina showed their World Cup credentials with two late goals to book their spot in a consecutive final where they'll face Spain as they look to defend their crown.
Tuchel's Substitutions Questioned
The Telegraph reports that Tuchel's choice to introduce Ezri Konsa, Dan Burn and Nico O'Reilly left several England players bewildered, as he attempted to protect their lead and shut up shop. It was a tactic that proved so effective for the Three Lions against Mexico in the round of 16, delivering one of their finest World Cup performances in recent memory with ten men. But faced with a superior opponent in Argentina, England buckled under the weight of pressure.
The report suggests those within the England camp felt Argentina were there for the taking following Gordon's opener, and that Lionel Scaloni's side would have been more exposed on the counter-attack, playing directly into England's strengths. Yet rather than introducing the likes of Bukayo Saka, Marcus Rashford or Noni Madueke to inject fresh energy on the wings, Tuchel opted for a 5-4-1 formation.
Attacking Changes Too Late
Ollie Watkins was another player left on the bench, and it wasn't until England found themselves 2-1 down that Tuchel responded with attacking substitutions, bringing on Rashford and Ivan Toney. The report also suggests there is a feeling that Declan Rice should have been replaced by an out-and-out midfielder rather than a defender when he was withdrawn. Kobbie Mainoo remained on the bench and has not featured for a single minute throughout the entire tournament.
Tuchel Defends His Decisions
Defending his choices following the final whistle, Tuchel said: "Millions of coaches after the game think that they know better. I have to make a decision, it's how I analysed the game. No regrets. The team gave everything and played one of our better matches, probably our best under the circumstances."
Guehi's Disappointment
Yet defender Marc Guehi was amongst those who felt England ought to have maintained their pressure on Argentina. Speaking in the aftermath, he said: "Once we went 1-0 up we seemed to just try and hold on, which at this level is just not enough, so I'm gutted. We should have carried on. We should have carried on pushing. It kind of felt like we scored and then the mentality was go back, defend."
