England manager Thomas Tuchel has defended his tactical decisions following the Three Lions' heartbreaking 2-1 defeat to Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final, insisting he has no regrets despite growing criticism over his substitutions.
England appeared destined for their first World Cup final since 1966 after Anthony Gordon fired Tuchel's side into the lead early in the second half at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
However, the defending champions responded in emphatic fashion as Enzo Fernández restored parity before Lautaro Martínez completed a dramatic comeback with a late winner, sending Argentina into Sunday's World Cup final.
Speaking after the match, Tuchel admitted England lost control immediately after taking the lead.
"We're disappointed; we were so close, but we got too passive after we scored and conceded a lot of chances," Tuchel said.
The German tactician acknowledged that his players struggled to retain possession as Argentina dominated the closing stages.
"We could not turn the ball possession around and then conceded so many crosses, chances and shots. We were close but couldn't keep the level up after we scored."
Tuchel Defends Controversial Substitutions
Tuchel has faced criticism for replacing goalscorer Anthony Gordon with defender Ezri Konsa in the 72nd minute as Argentina intensified their attacks.
However, the former Chelsea manager insisted the change was necessary to close defensive gaps rather than invite pressure.
"We conceded a chance straight away, and we decided to go to a back five because the gaps were far too open. Straight after our goal, without any substitutions, we conceded way too many crosses and way too many chances, so we tried to help."
Asked whether his tactical approach backfired, Tuchel remained defiant.
"No, I believe that's just the nature of the game. As soon as you lose, you get criticised. No one knows what would have happened if we had made different decisions."
He added that he accepts full responsibility for the outcome.
"I'm responsible for them. I took those decisions, so I take the criticism."
'We Couldn't Get the Ball'
Tuchel also dismissed suggestions that England deliberately became defensive after taking the lead, arguing that Argentina simply prevented his side from keeping possession.
"Of course, we wanted to go for the second goal, but we couldn't win any balls, we couldn't keep the ball. It was not a structural problem; the match changed completely."
Tuchel Rules Out Resignation
Despite England's painful World Cup exit, Tuchel made it clear he has no plans to step down.
The England boss, who signed a two-year contract extension in February that keeps him in charge until the 2028 UEFA European Championship, said his focus remains on preparing the team for the future.
"We keep on going for the contract until the home Euros, and I'm looking forward to that."
England's elimination means their wait for a first World Cup title since 1966 continues, while Argentina will now face Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.