The appointment of Thomas Tuchel as England’s manager in 2024 was based on his reputation as a tactical expert, expected to devise strategies to win the World Cup. England, under Gareth Southgate, often faltered during critical moments, especially in the World Cup semi-final against Croatia eight years ago when they lost their lead.
In the recent clash with Argentina, England’s failure was not due to passivity but a proactive collapse. Despite leading 1-0 from Anthony Gordon’s goal, England didn’t capitalize on their position. They failed to substitute pacey players like Bukayo Saka or Marcus Rashford to maintain their attack. Instead, they retreated, allowing Argentina to dominate. Enzo Fernandez’s equalizer in the closing minutes felt inevitable as England struggled to fend off Argentina’s constant pressure.
Recalling the quarter-final against Croatia four weeks prior, Tuchel’s strategy successfully utilized Saka and Rashford for a late win. Yet, against Argentina, he hesitated to exploit England’s speed and strength, despite Argentina’s vulnerable defense with key players sidelined. As the match wore on, England’s defense sank deeper, inviting pressure from Lionel Messi and his team.
When Messi set up a chance for Nico Gonzalez, signaling Argentina’s intensified attack, Tuchel failed to adapt effectively. His decision to implement the Azteca Plan—a defensive setup with a back five—backfired. This approach surrendered midfield space to Messi, who orchestrated Argentina’s breakthrough with precision.
The introduction of Dan Burn exacerbated England’s defensive retreat. Despite having numerous players in the box, they left Fernandez free to equalize. By the time Alexis Mac Allister hit the post and Messi assisted Lautaro Martinez for the winner, England was helpless.
Throughout the match, England’s possession dwindled to a mere 12% following Gordon’s goal, favoring a defensive stance akin to reactive football championed by Jose Mourinho. Their late attempts to regain composure proved futile.
The aftermath was dispiriting for England’s squad. They were on the brink of their first World Cup final in six decades yet fell short due to tactical misjudgements. Tuchel, hired for his ability to guide England through the tournament, saw his strategy unravel as England regressed tactically.
This semi-final loss mirrors previous defeats but differs in that England’s approach was self-inflicted. Despite having a superior team to 2018 with experienced players and the best manager, their execution faltered. The match concluded with England outmaneuvered and unable to reclaim control.