England’s hopes of lifting the World Cup trophy for the first time since 1966 are over after losing a semi-final to Argentina. The Three Lions took the lead against the reigning world champions on Wednesday night as Anthony Gordon produced a clinical finish at the back post, getting on the end of a Morgan Rogers cross. With five minutes of normal time remaining, Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez equalised, before Lautaro Martinez scored in the second minute of stoppage time to break English hearts.
Tuchel's Decisions Under Scrutiny
Thomas Tuchel will come in for criticism for his defensive substitutions after England had taken the lead, and naturally, attentions will shift towards the German’s future as head coach. However, it is very unlikely that he will be sacked. The Football Association (FA) are expected to keep faith with Tuchel despite the World Cup exit.
A thrilling, historic win over Mexico at the Azteca, followed by an extra-time victory against Norway in Miami, Florida, is understood to have secured the German’s job whatever happened in the last eight. While a shock exit to DR Congo in the last 32 could have placed his position in serious jeopardy, England’s challenging route through the tournament means Tuchel is not expected to face immediate pressure over his future.
Contract Extension and Performance Review
Tuchel has already agreed a contract extension through to Euro 2028, and the FA’s intention remains for him to lead England into that tournament unless there is a major collapse. His deal includes performance-related clauses that could reduce compensation if targets are not met. England and Tuchel’s showing at the World Cup will be assessed, but the FA is not expected to base its assessment solely on results.
Instead, the difficulty of England’s opponents, performances on the pitch, and the atmosphere within the squad will all be evaluated. Tuchel has also had to contend with injuries, particularly at right-back. Reece James, Tino Livramento, and Jarell Quansah have all suffered setbacks, leaving Djed Spence to fill the role. Despite criticism over squad selection, those within the England camp believe Tuchel has been hampered by misfortune rather than poor planning.
Positive Environment and Support
The FA are understood to have been encouraged by the positive environment Tuchel has created. Players have praised his demanding but professional approach, while his rapport with supporters has grown during the tournament. Chief executive Mark Bullingham has repeatedly expressed confidence in Tuchel, insisting the governing body remains committed to him through 2028.
“We do a full review after every tournament,” Bullingham told reporters. “You want to look at how well you’ve done, who are you drawn against, what was the mood in the camp, how were things going behind the scenes, and what was the complete package, and where did things go well, where they did not. We do still think of tournaments in blocks, but in effect you’re looking at 2028 and you’re starting six months ago and going ‘OK, what do we want?’ We have a manager who we think is doing a really good job. Obviously, there’s tough tests to come, we’ll see how we go. But we’re very happy with everything behind the scenes, how it’s playing out, how he’s worked with everyone.”
