Thomas Tuchel's prior comments about England playing with "fear" under Gareth Southgate have resurfaced as his own tactical approach draws criticism after Germany's World Cup semi-final exit against Argentina. Germany succumbed to a 2-1 defeat, squandering a first-half lead.
Tuchel had previously stated that England seemed "more afraid to drop out of the tournament than having the excitement and hunger to win it" during their Euro 2024 campaign. However, similar accusations of passive play and a lack of attacking intent are now being leveled against his German side.
England took the lead in the semi-final through Anthony Gordon, but after making several defensive substitutions, the team appeared to retreat. Argentina capitalized, equalizing through Enzo Fernandez and securing the win in stoppage time with a Lautaro Martinez header.
Former player Wayne Rooney criticized Tuchel's strategy, suggesting that bringing on defenders to protect a lead was "asking for trouble" and akin to "surrendering."
Tuchel deployed a back five, a formation that had served him well in the previous round against Mexico. Ezri Konsa was introduced in the 72nd minute to bolster the defense, with further defensive adjustments made later when Reece James sustained an injury. This tactical shift invited Argentina to attack, and England reportedly had only 12 percent possession from the moment they scored until Argentina's winning goal.
Admitting his team became "too passive" after scoring, Tuchel accepted responsibility for the loss. "We conceded a lot of chances," he told the BBC. "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."
He explained the decision to shift to a back five by citing the "far too open" gaps in the defense and the continuous aerial threats from Argentina. "They won every header, they kept crossing and crossing so we went to a back five to close the gaps inside and be strong in the air," Tuchel said. "Straight after our goal, without any substitutions, we conceded way too many crosses and way too many chances so we tried to help."
Tuchel, 52, is currently under contract with the German national team through the 2028 Euros. FA chief executive Mark Bullingham confirmed that the contract includes performance-related clauses but expressed confidence that Tuchel would remain coach until the tournament.