A number of England players have reportedly complained about manager Thomas Tuchel’s tactical approach in the World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina. There has been a lot of criticism directed at the Three Lions manager following the defeat, in which England surrendered a one-goal lead with six minutes left in stoppage time.
Anthony Gordon’s opening goal put England firmly on track to reach their first World Cup final since 1966. However, a change in defense changed the game, and Argentina launched one attack after another. Tuchel made a number of defensive changes to protect England’s lead, but the decisions ultimately backfired.
A 5-4-1 formation was adopted, with Nico O’Reilly slotting into central midfield, with six defenders eventually on the pitch.
England could barely get out of their own half in the closing stages and Argentina made the most of it, quickly scoring two goals and winning the match.
From Gordon’s opening goal to Lisandro Martinez’s winning header, England were completely dominant with just 12 per cent of possession.
Tuchel has been widely blamed for leading England to defeat, and at least some of his players appear to share that view.
According to BBC Sport, at least three senior members of the team privately complained about the tactical approach in the final stages of the game.
Some players felt England should have acted more bravely instead of retreating into their own half, with one source reportedly saying: “They went too deep too soon.”
The comments came after Tuchel defended his tactics against Argentina and instead suggested that England’s football culture was to blame for the defeat.
“I haven’t seen the data yet, but I think immediately after the goal the momentum completely changed and possession dropped dramatically. We didn’t see a duel anymore. That’s why we fell deeper.”
“It was never the plan, but it happened. We couldn’t stop the runners from the second line, the runners in the middle, but the delivery was top-notch.
“We need to get back on the ball, otherwise we won’t be able to break the pressure and regain momentum. I think possession will play a key role.”
“Maybe it’s not in our DNA to win the ball and control the game with the ball like it is in the DNA of Spaniards, Argentines and Brazilians.”
