England squad debates Tuchel’s tactics after World Cup semi-final loss to Argentina
Following England’s 2-1 defeat to Argentina in the World Cup semi-final, discussions within Thomas Tuchel’s squad have focused on the team’s tactical approach in the final stages of the match. Several key players reportedly expressed disappointment with how the team managed the game after taking a 1-0 lead.
The match, played on Wednesday, saw England appear poised for their first men’s World Cup final since 1966. However, Argentina’s pressure intensified, leading to a shift in momentum that ultimately resulted in England conceding two goals.
Tactical Decisions Under Scrutiny
Tuchel implemented a back-five formation to defend the lead, a strategy that has drawn criticism. Pundit Wayne Rooney attributed the defeat to the manager’s decisions. Sources indicate that some senior players privately voiced concerns about the team’s defensive retreat.
While acknowledging that ceding ground can be a natural instinct when defending a lead, certain players believe Tuchel’s tactical changes and substitutions exacerbated the defensive posture. Some felt the team should have been more proactive in pressing the ball to relieve pressure on the defence.
One source commented, “They went too deep too early.” This sentiment suggests a belief among some players that a bolder approach could have been maintained, striking a balance between defending and posing an attacking threat.
Tuchel, in comments to British newspapers, stated that dropping deeper was “never the plan.” He explained that the team became too passive within their structure, struggling to win duels, which led to the deeper positioning. He aimed for the team to be more active and quicker to the wingers, not to create gaps in the defence.
The manager also reflected on the team’s “DNA,” suggesting that controlling the game with ball possession might not be inherent to English football in the same way it is for Spanish, Argentinian, or Brazilian teams. He believes the team still possesses the ability to demonstrate their quality, as observed in training.
Messi’s Influence and England’s Response
Before the match, Tuchel had considered various scenarios, including how to manage Lionel Messi. For the initial hour of the game, Messi’s involvement in dangerous areas was limited. Data showed England effectively restricted his impact, with his only possession in the centre of the penalty area being tackled by Elliot Anderson after Anthony Gordon had scored.
Messi’s sprinting speed percentage was lower than in previous rounds, and he had few shots, with his only effort from long range being blocked. His heat map indicated he operated primarily in his usual right half-space, an area England could plan for.
However, subtle shifts occurred in the second half. Messi began to operate from the flank between the penalty box and the touchline, attempting six open-play crosses from this region. This was a significantly higher number than his average in league football since 2015.
One of Messi’s wide deliveries led to a header from Nico González, which Jordan Pickford saved. This moment may have influenced Tuchel’s decision to introduce Ezri Konsa, followed by Dan Burn, and switch to a back five. While this strategy had been effective against Mexico, Messi’s crossing ability proved decisive.
Messi’s cross for Lautaro Martínez’s winning goal generated a high expected goals (xG) value, surpassing England’s total for the entire match. This assist, his second World Cup assist with his right foot, was a complex play, differing from his previous assist to Julián Álvarez in the Qatar semi-finals.
Looking Ahead
Tuchel’s appointment was based on the belief that he could guide England to victory, building on Gareth Southgate’s previous successes in reaching a World Cup semi-final and two European Championship finals. However, the internal player discussions regarding his tactical decisions in Atlanta could influence the team’s dynamic as they approach the European Championship qualifying campaign.
Despite the criticism, Tuchel retains the full support of Football Association chief executive Mark Bullingham. The FA will conduct a review of England’s tournament performance upon their return home, following Saturday’s bronze medal match against France.
England’s progression to the semi-final is still considered an achievement by the FA, but the circumstances surrounding their loss to Argentina will be thoroughly examined.
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Source: bbc.com
