Tuchel: We Became Too Passive

Thomas Tuchel expressed his disappointment following England's 2-1 defeat to Argentina in the semi-final clash of the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. The Three Lions initially took a 1-0 lead but ultimately conceded a comeback. The coach believes his team became too passive and failed to close out the match in time.

"We are disappointed. We were so close, but after the goal, we became too passive. We allowed far too many crosses, chances, and shots. We were close, but after scoring, we couldn't maintain our level.

We decided to switch to a five-at-the-back formation because the spaces were too large, and we wanted to be stronger in the air. Immediately after the goal, even before we made substitutions, we allowed too many crosses. We tried to help the players, but the responsibility lies with the coach.

Of course, we wanted to push for a second goal, but that can't happen if you don't have possession. We became too passive and couldn't keep the ball. I don't think the problem was with the structure. The game completely changed, and I understand there will be discussions, and that millions of coaches will claim to know better. But I have to make the decision.

I have no regrets, at least not at this moment. We were very close and deservedly led 1-0. Up to that point, we played one of our better matches, perhaps even our best," Tuchel stated.

The coach was also asked if his team had truly shown their best at this World Cup, to which he replied that it was too early for such generalizations.

"I cannot answer that question because I don't fully understand what it means. Now is not the time to analyze the entire tournament," Tuchel clarified.