Thomas Tuchel is facing heavy criticism after England's World Cup semi-final collapse against Argentina, where they threw away a 1-0 lead to lose 2-1. The German manager's defensive substitutions and tactical approach in the second half have been widely condemned as the primary reasons for the defeat.
How England Lost Control
England had taken the lead through Anthony Gordon and appeared to have Argentina on the ropes. However, instead of pressing for a second goal, Tuchel's side retreated, ceding possession and territory to the world champions. Between the 67th and 90th minutes, England had just 7.5% possession and completed only five passes. This invited relentless pressure from Argentina, who eventually equalised and then scored a late winner through Lionel Messi's cross.
Tuchel's Tactical Errors
The key mistake, according to analysts, was Tuchel's decision to withdraw Anthony Gordon without introducing any pace on the counter-attack. Replacing Gordon with a like-for-like runner such as Marcus Rashford or Ollie Watkins would have maintained an outlet, but instead England lost all threat, allowing Argentina to push forward with impunity. "It was a shameful second half," wrote Charlie Malam in the Express. "This is exactly what he was appointed to avoid."
Tuchel's defensive-minded substitutions left England stuck without an escape valve. Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham had rare off-nights, and no other player stepped up to keep the ball or calm the game. Despite having Argentina worried after Gordon's goal, England failed to be "cold-blooded killers" when it mattered.
Argentina's Resilience
Argentina, meanwhile, showed their champion mentality. Jordan Pickford made a brilliant save to deny Nico Gonzalez, and Alexis Mac Allister twice hit the post before the breakthrough. The South Americans have now won three consecutive knockout matches in dramatic fashion, and have not lost a match with 11 men since November 2024. Their ability to win late has become a hallmark, as demonstrated in their last two Copa America triumphs and the previous World Cup.
Lionel Messi, who once retired from international football after losing four finals, has since become a serial winner. "It's been four finals, it's not meant for me," he said in 2016. England would do well to learn from his perseverance.
Lessons for Euro 2028
With home advantage at Euro 2028, England must adopt a more aggressive approach. Tuchel was brought in to deliver a trophy, but he fumbled in the ideal scenario, becoming what he criticised Gareth Southgate for being: too cautious. "He needs to be braver in 2028," Malam concluded. "Football isn't coming home again unless England go out and snatch it."
