Tuchel's Tactical Timidity
It was a tale as old as time. England took the lead against Argentina in the World Cup semi-final, but a fearful second-half performance cost them a place in the final. Jacob Steinberg argues that Thomas Tuchel's changes would have seen previous managers hammered, and his decision to retreat defensively played into Argentina's hands.
After Anthony Gordon put England ahead, Tuchel's team dropped deep, inviting pressure. "No one put a foot on the ball and offered control," Steinberg notes. Harry Kane was anonymous, and the midfield was outclassed by Enzo Fernandez and Alexis Mac Allister.
"I'm gutted for the boys, I'm gutted for everyone. Once we went 1-0 up we seemed to just try and hold on which at this level just isn't enough." — Harry Kane
Tuchel, who signed an extension until Euro 2028, has vowed to stay on despite this setback, but his negative approach will face intense scrutiny.
Messi's Inevitable Gravity
Lionel Messi, at 39, provided two assists to turn the game around. "To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield," writes Barney Ronay, as Messi once again bent the occasion to his will. England "simply disappeared as an animate entity" after taking the lead.
Goals from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez sealed a 2-1 win, with Messi instrumental. World Cup glory now awaits in the final.
Four years after lifting the trophy, Messi is back in another final, having dragged Argentina from a goal down with typical artistry. England had no answer to his gravitational pull.
What Lies Ahead
Argentina's victory sets up a final against a yet-to-be-determined opponent, and their blend of experience and youthful energy looks formidable. For England, it is another semi-final heartbreak, and Tuchel's cautious tactics will dominate the inquest. Holding on was never going to be enough against a side with Argentina's intent.
