Thomas Tuchel’s tactics questioned after England’s World Cup exit | OneFootball

Wayne Rooney and Micah Richards both questioned Thomas Tuchel’s tactical decisions after England’s World Cup campaign ended with a 2-1 semi-final defeat to Argentina.

England led in Atlanta but were unable to build on their advantage as Argentina fought back to reach a second successive World Cup final.

Tuchel’s decision to switch to a back five after England had gone in front came under particular scrutiny, with both former internationals believing it handed the initiative to the reigning world champions.

Richards felt England abandoned the momentum they had built during the opening stages.

“Thomas Tuchel was brought in to be the difference,” he said.

“Tactically, we all thought he got it wrong today. When we went to five at the back, I thought we could have kept the momentum going and brought on wingers.

“Ultimately, we didn’t have the answers.”

Former England captain Rooney was equally critical, arguing England became too passive after taking the lead and paid the price against an Argentina side who gradually took control of the contest.

“Once we got the first goal, we didn’t look to go for the second goal,” Rooney said.

“For the players, and for me, Thomas Tuchel made the decision, and when you make the decision it is a gamble.

“The gamble he made was to go with five at the back, which allowed them to dictate the game.”

England finished the match having managed just five attempts on goal – their lowest total in a match at the 2026 World Cup – while Argentina created the clearer opportunities before completing the turnaround.

Rooney believes Tuchel’s changes ultimately worked against England.

“The decisions that Tuchel has made cost us tonight,” he added.

“These fans have spent a lot of money to be out here. I expected more in this game.

“Argentina are the world champions. We knew it was going to be difficult.

“The changes we made didn’t help us. Devastated.

“Sometimes you need a bit of luck to win these tournaments.”

The defeat ended England’s hopes of reaching their first World Cup final since 1966, while Argentina will now face either France or Spain in Sunday’s showpiece.