Thomas Tuchel has defended his late-game substitutions in England's World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina, asserting that criticism of his tactical decisions is easier in hindsight. England surrendered their lead in Atlanta, with Argentina eventually securing a 2-1 victory in injury time.
Tuchel brought on defender Ezri Konsa for winger Anthony Gordon with nearly 30 minutes remaining in the match, including stoppage time. Critics, including former England strikers Alan Shearer and Wayne Rooney, argued that this change shifted momentum to Argentina.
"If it doesn't go well, it's easy to say that it was wrong," Tuchel told the BBC. "We just tried to help the players. We conceded straight away. We decided to go to a back five because the gaps were far too open."
He explained that after England took the lead, the team was conceding too many crosses and chances, prompting the decision to bolster the defense. "We tried to help but the responsibility was on the coach," Tuchel added.
Between England's opening goal and Argentina's equalizer, England held only 12 percent of possession. "We couldn't get out," Tuchel said. "Of course we wanted to go for the second goal but I didn't feel an offensive substitution would help."
Rooney stated that "The decisions Thomas Tuchel made cost us tonight" and that "He played his cards very, very early and it has backfired." Shearer added, "They were physically and mentally done when Argentina got that first goal."
Tuchel accepted responsibility for the outcome. "I had to make a decision. I have to analyse the match. I take responsibility. No regrets. The team gave everything and we were very close. We deserved to be up 1-0. We played maybe our best match in the circumstances. No regrets."
Following the match, Argentina's players celebrated with a banner displaying "Las Malvinas son Argentinas," a reference to the Falklands Islands. FIFA, which has not condemned similar displays, was contacted for comment.
Scuffles reportedly broke out outside the venue after the game.