Thomas Tuchel insists he is “100 per cent” committed to leading England into Euro 2028 after receiving the backing of the Football Association following their World Cup semi-final heartbreak against Argentina.
Tuchel has come under fire from all quarters following his defensive substitutions in the 2-1 defeat to the world champions, after England went on the back foot and tried to hold on following Anthony Gordon’s 55th-minute opener in Atlanta.
Tuchel defended his changes but admitted England were too “passive” - while The Independent understands Argentina’s players were privately stunned by Tuchel’s negative tactics as the Three Lions dropped deep and invited pressure.
The FA are nevertheless understood to feel that England’s elimination was not the fault of Tuchel’s tactical decisions, with the German explaining that the DNA of English football needs changing if his side are to win major tournaments.
“There is still enough to improve, and I am more than happy to do that,” Tuchel said on leading England at a home Euros. “I still feel there is an extra level that we need to conquer and need to step up to the next level to get the big prize.”
Follow all of the reaction from England vs Argentina with our live blog below
England vs Argentina LIVE
- Thomas Tuchel '100 per cent' committed to leading England into Euro 2028
- Tuchel blames England’s ‘DNA’ following World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina
- Exclusive: Argentina players privately stunned by Tuchel’s defensive approach
- Fifa to investigate whether Argentina broke rules over Falklands banner
- Miguel Delaney: Why Tuchel’s mistake is far worse than anything Southgate did
- Jude Bellingham could face Fifa disciplinary action over post-match ‘slap’
Thomas Tuchel blames England’s ‘DNA’ following World Cup semi-final defeat
07:15 , Jamie Braidwood
England boss Thomas Tuchel says the DNA of English football needs changing if his side are to win major tournaments and insists he is “100 per cent” committed to staying in the job.
Tuchel, who replaced Sir Gareth Southgate with the explicit brief of getting them over the line in major tournaments, was complicit in England’s surrender, with some early defensive substitutions.
Asked whether it is possible to change the English mentality, he said: “If it happens then it has to be changed.”
Thomas Tuchel blames England’s ‘DNA’ following World Cup semi-final defeat
‘Tuchel threw the game away’: Readers split on manager after England’s World Cup exit to Argentina
06:15 , Jamie Braidwood
Some readers say Thomas Tuchel’s substitutions cost England their World Cup semi-final against Argentina, while others argue the manager was made a scapegoat for a better side simply winning
‘Tuchel threw the game away’: Readers split on World Cup exit
Copa Independent: England are out - the same story but at a greater expense?
05:15 , Jamie Braidwood
Wayne Rooney warned us about Thomas Tuchel’s fatal flaw – and nobody listened
04:15 , Lawrence Ostlere, Chief Sports Writer
England’s cowardly retreat against Argentina was a repeat of their strategy against Mexico two weeks earlier, and while that performance was hailed as heroic, it was deeply flawed
Wayne Rooney warned us about Thomas Tuchel’s fatal flaw – and nobody listened
Thomas Tuchel lost his bottle and his pure cowardice ended England’s World Cup dream
03:15 , Miguel Delaney at Atlanta Stadium
England had the lead they craved thanks to Anthony Gordon, only for Tuchel – appointed for his tactical acumen – to make a series of inexplicable substitutions that let Argentina turn the game around
Thomas Tuchel lost his bottle and his pure cowardice ended England’s World Cup dream
Thomas Tuchel retains FA’s backing despite heavy criticism after England’s World Cup exit
02:15 , Miguel Delaney
Under-fire Thomas Tuchel retains the Football Association’s backing after England’s disappointing World Cup semi-final loss to Argentina and looks set to stay on as manager for Euro 2028.
Thomas Tuchel retains FA backing despite criticism after England’s World Cup exit
Think you had it bad? I watched England lose to Argentina in Buenos Aires
01:15 , Adam Hathaway
Ever felt lonely? Imagine one of seven English journalists in a park just outside Buenos Aires when Argentina have just knocked your side out of the World Cup.
Imagine being seven glum faces in a sea of blue and white delirium with 150,000 locals going mad whilst the man on the microphone leads the hordes in a chant of “Messi, Messi!”
Think you had it bad? I watched England lose to Argentina in Buenos Aires
Gary Lineker questions ‘unfathomable’ England tactics against Lionel Messi and Argentina
00:15 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Gary Lineker described England’s tactics against Lionel Messi and Argentina as “unfathomable” as Thomas Tuchel’s side let a 1-0 lead slip in the World Cup semi-final.
“I found it absolutely unfathomable that, if your tactic is to sit everyone deep, you do that against the greatest player ever to play football,” Lineker said on The Rest Is Football in reference to Messi.
“I think he’s just cementing that game after game after game. Most goals in the World Cup, most assists in the World Cup. And he moves to the right, yeah, and you play a back five, and you still don’t go and get tight to him.
“Just put someone on him. He had so much space. He just whipped ball after ball after ball into the box.”
Lineker questions ‘unfathomable’ England tactics against Lionel Messi and Argentina
What punishment could Argentina face for Falklands banner after England win?
23:15 , Jamie Braidwood
Argentina could face disciplinary action from Fifa after several of their players celebrated with a banner supporting their country’s claims to the Falkland Islands following the World Cup win over England.
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) was previously fined £20,000 by Fifa in 2014 after Argentina’s players held up a banner with the same message.
The governing body said the actions, which followed a friendly win over Slovenia, had breached rules on political action and team misconduct. Argentina fans have chanted songs referencing the islands throughout this World Cup.
A Fifa spokesperson said: “As is standard procedure, Fifa’s independent Disciplinary Committee is currently assessing the match reports and considering the relevant circumstances before deciding on potential further steps based on the Fifa Disciplinary Code.”
What punishment could Argentina face for Falklands banner?
The deeper question England must answer after latest World Cup failure
22:15 , Jamie Braidwood
The FA went big for a proven winner in Thomas Tuchel – only to fall short in familiar fashion. Miguel Delaney argues English football needs a rethink from top to bottom
The deeper question England must answer after latest World Cup failure
Jude Bellingham clarifies Lionel Messi confrontation in England’s World Cup semi-final loss to Argentina
21:15 , Kieran Jackson
Jude Bellingham insists he was simply “discussing a foul” with Lionel Messi as a clip of their heated confrontation in the World Cup semi-final went viral on social media.
Bellingham, who can speak fluent Spanish, was embroiled in a conversation with Messi in the first half during a brief pause in play, resulting in Messi making a pointed facial expression and Bellingham laughing as he walked away.
Bellingham clarifies Messi confrontation in World Cup semi-final defeat
Jude Bellingham could face Fifa disciplinary action over post-match ‘slap’ on Argentina player
20:38 , Jamie Gardner
England midfielder Jude Bellingham could face disciplinary action from Fifa after appearing to strike Argentina’s Valentin Barco on the back of the head following their World Cup semi-final defeat in Atlanta.
It remains to be seen whether Fifa’s disciplinary committee will take action against Bellingham and any action could result in a suspension for the third-place play-off against France in Miami on Saturday.
Jude Bellingham could face Fifa disciplinary action over post-match ‘slap’
Fifa to investigate whether Argentina broke rules over Falklands banner
20:33 , Jamie Braidwood
Fifa will assess whether Argentina players broke rules after displaying a banner in support of their country’s claims to the Falkland Islands following their World Cup semi-final win over England.
It comes after Downing Street called for an investigation into the celebrations, which saw several Argentina players wave a banner that read “Las Malvinas son Argentinas”, which translates to “The Falkland Islands are Argentinian”.
Fifa to investigate whether Argentina broke rules over Falklands banner
Argentina players privately stunned by Thomas Tuchel’s defensive approach to World Cup semi-final
20:30 , Miguel Delaney, Chief Football Writer
Exclusive: Argentina were stunned by England’s response to taking the lead in their World Cup semi-final and were shocked by the defensive nature of Thomas Tuchel’s substitutions, having specifically prepared themselves for the introduction of pace in the second half.
The Independent understands Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni was braced for the introduction of one of Bukayo Saka and Noni Madueke, if not both. Scaloni and his staff were aware that their side’s main vulnerability is when a game is stretched, leaving them vulnerable to speed in behind.
Argentina players remarked afterwards that they feared this exact scenario following Anthony Gordon’s 55th-minute goal, only to gradually realise that England were dropping deeper and deeper.
Argentina players privately stunned by Thomas Tuchel’s defensive approach
Thomas Tuchel blames England’s ‘DNA’ following World Cup semi-final defeat
20:29 , Jamie Braidwood
England boss Thomas Tuchel says the DNA of English football needs changing if his side are to win major tournaments and insists he is “100 per cent” committed to staying in the job.
Asked whether it is possible to change the English mentality following the World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina, Tuchel said: “If it happens then it has to be changed.
“But I’m not sure, I always try to think in football terms, in football matters. I haven’t seen the data yet but I think right after the goal, the momentum swings completely in ball possession, chances and it drops dramatically.
“We got too passive within our structure. I tried to help, not to become more passive with a back five but to be more active, to be quicker out to the wingers, not to open up the gaps between the back four.
“We encouraged everyone to step out, to be more active within the structure, but we just struggled. We couldn’t find any duels any more which was why we dropped deeper and deeper, which was never the plan but it happened.
“We needed to get back on the ball otherwise you cannot break the pressure and you cannot get the momentum back.
“I think ball possession plays a crucial role. It’s maybe not in our DNA like it is in the Spanish DNA or Argentinian or Brazilian DNA to take the ball, control the game and the ball, which is also a big problem.”
Thomas Tuchel blames England’s ‘DNA’ following World Cup semi-final defeat
Thomas Tuchel '100 per cent' committed to leading England into Euro 2028
20:28 , Jamie Braidwood
Thomas Tuchel has reiterated his desire to lead England at Euro 2028 and has retained the backing of the Football Association despite the nature of the World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina.
“Yes, 100 per cent,” said Tuchel, who signed a contract through to 2028 before the start of the tournament. “There is still enough to improve, and I am more than happy to do that.
“I’ve loved it. I loved every day. I said after the Norway game that I see a disconnect from what I see in training on a football level and within the games, I think we can impose ourselves more on the ball.
“I still think we can show how good football players we are. I think that is still in us, as I see it in training and in every camp.
“And here also at the World Cup. I still feel there is an extra level that we need to conquer and need to step up to the next level to get the big prize.”
The way Micah Richards handled his father’s death reminds us how little football really matters
20:15 , Jamie Braidwood
Hours before the England vs Argentina kick-off, the BBC’s World Cup pundit found out his father had died – but decided the show had to go on. I know how hard it is on TV when you've just lost a loved one, says Ava Vidal
The way Micah Richards handled his dad’s death reminds us how little football matters
Why Thomas Tuchel’s colossal England mistake is far worse than anything Gareth Southgate did
19:15 , Miguel Delaney
The England manager’s substitutions spectacularly backfired as Argentina, particularly Messi, exploited their vulnerability with ease
Why Tuchel’s colossal England mistake is far worse than anything Southgate did
World Cup might not be ours but the Falklands definitely are, says defiant No 10 after Argentina banner row
18:15 , Millie Cooke & David Maddox
Downing Street has backed calls for Fifa to investigate whether Argentina players broke rules by waving a banner in support of their country’s claims to the Falkland Islands, and insisted: “The World Cup might not be ours, but the Falkland Islands definitely are.”
An international row was sparked when Argentine players held up a banner that read ‘Las Malvinas son Argentinas’, which translates to ‘The Falkland Islands are Argentinian’, in the wake of their 2-1 victory over England in the World Cup semi-final on Wednesday night.
Tensions between the UK and Argentina boiled over following the football clash, with Argentina accusing a British warship of an “illegal journey” into its waters, just hours after its victory.
World Cup might not be ours but Falklands are, says No 10 after Argentina banner row
In 60 years of hurt, this is one of England’s most painful World Cup defeats
17:15 , Harry Latham-Coyle
England’s World Cup exits often come with a sense of injustice, that somehow the footballing gods conspired against them, writes Lawrence Ostlere. Not this time.
In 60 years of hurt, this is one of England’s most painful World Cup defeats
Messi and Argentina react after finding Pickford’s World Cup penalty cheat sheet
16:15 , Harry Latham-Coyle
It’s probably a good job, for all sorts of reasons, that England and Argentina did not go to penalties last night – though Jordan Pickford was prepared for that eventuality.
Messi and Argentina react after finding Pickford’s penalty cheat sheet
Harry Kane speaks out on his World Cup future after England’s devastating semi-final exit
16:00 , Harry Latham-Coyle
England captain Harry Kane has hinted at his desire to feature in another World Cup after his side’s semi-final heartbreak against Argentina.
Harry Kane speaks out on his World Cup future after England’s semi-final exit
Argentina star speaks out on decision to display Falklands banner after World Cup win
15:50 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Argentina golfer produces Enzo Fernandez celebration at the Open
15:40 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Full credit to Mateo Pulcini, who has taken some stick from the supporters at Birkdale today amid a tough outing for the amateur – but poked fun at the English fans with his celebration after draining a putt.
Mateo Pulcini celebrated his birdie on the 18th with the ear-cupping celebration used by Enzo Fernandez in last night's World Cup semi-final 👂⛳ pic.twitter.com/MjpLAieFi5
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 16, 2026
Emiliano Martinez admits Argentina felt momentum swing after England changes
15:25 , Harry Latham-Coyle
"We felt it,” the Argentina goalkeeper told the BBC. “We felt them going backwards and backwards rather than going forward. Sometimes when you are winning, you have to go forward anyway. You can't change the gameplan. I think they did it and they put extra defenders."
Thomas Tuchel set to remain as England boss until Euro 2028
15:05 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Under-fire Thomas Tuchel retains the Football Association’s backing after England’s disappointing World Cup semi-final loss to Argentina and looks set to stay on as manager for Euro 2028.
The 52-year-old former Chelsea boss was named Sir Gareth Southgate’s successor in November 2024 and was widely cited as having the necessary tactical acumen to go one step further than his predecessor, who lost in back-to-back European Championship finals as well as in a World Cup semi.
Anthony Gordon’s strike had England on their way to achieving that and making a first men’s World Cup final since 1966, only for Tuchel’s defence-minded alterations to invite Argentina pressure as the Atlanta semi-final ended in a late 2-1 loss – evoking memories of previous eras.
The German coach’s negative decision making has put him under intense scrutiny, but it is understood he maintains the FA’s support.
Thomas Tuchel retains FA backing despite criticism after England’s World Cup exit
POLL: Did Thomas Tuchel get it wrong against Argentina?
15:00 , Harry Latham-Coyle
England are out - the same story but at a greater expense?
14:45 , Jack Rathborn
England’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina earns record viewing figures for BBC
14:30 , Harry Latham-Coyle
More than 21 million people tuned in to watch England’s World Cup defeat by Argentina on BBC One, making the game the most-watched UK broadcast of the year.
England’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina earns record viewing figures for BBC
The remarkable photos of Lionel Messi and baby Lamine Yamal as pair prepare to clash in World Cup final
14:15 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal have plenty in common – both graduates of La Masia, both left-footed, both Barcelona stars. They have a remarkable history, too, photographed together when the teenage Spaniard was an infant.
The amazing photo of Messi and baby Yamal as pair prepare to clash in World Cup final
Think you had it bad? I watched England lose to Argentina in Buenos Aires
14:00 , Harry Latham-Coyle
As Argentina broke English hearts at yet another World Cup, Adam Hathaway was left to endure his misery while in the thick of the erupting celebrations in the country’s capital.
Think you had it bad? I watched England lose to Argentina in Buenos Aires
Why Thomas Tuchel’s colossal England mistake is far worse than anything Gareth Southgate did
13:45 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Is Thomas Tuchel’s position in peril? It feels a pertinent question after a night like that. The England manager retains the FA’s backing but Miguel Delaney wonders if he should.
Why Tuchel’s colossal England mistake is far worse than anything Southgate did
Heartbroken England fans react to World Cup defeat
13:30 , The Independent
Argentina accuses British warship of ‘illegal journey’ into its waters after World Cup win
13:15 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Argentina, meanwhile, have accused a British warship of making an “illegal journey” into its waters after the World Cup game last night. Millie Cooke has more:
Argentina accuses British warship of ‘illegal journey’ into its waters
Falklands War hero says Argentina ‘cheapened’ victory over England with banner stunt
13:05 , Dan Haygarth
Simon Weston told The Independent that Argentina “dragged their victory into the gutter” after bringing the banner onto the pitch at full-time. Here’s the full story:
Falklands War hero says Argentina ‘cheapened’ victory over England with banner stunt
In 60 years of hurt, this might be England’s most painful World Cup defeat yet
12:50 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Was this England’s most painful World Cup defeat yet? Lawrence Ostlere makes the argument.
In 60 years of hurt, this might be England’s most painful World Cup defeat yet
Cristian Romero takes swipe at Gary Neville after Argentina beat England at World Cup
12:30 , Jack Rathborn
Cristian Romero has taken a swipe at Gary Neville over the pundit’s criticism of him following Argentina’s 2-1 victory over England in the World Cup semi-finals.
The former England right-back labelled Argentina’s Romero and Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez as “the best, worst centre-half pairing in the world” during the build-up to the semi-final in Atlanta.
Cristian Romero takes swipe at Gary Neville after Argentina beat England
The Lionel Messi superpower that sank England and sent Argentina to another World Cup final
12:20 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Lionel Messi: good at football. Lawrence Ostlere explains how the Argentina captain eventually swung the semi-final his way.
The Messi superpower that sank England and sent Argentina to another World Cup final
World Cup might not be ours but the Falklands are, says defiant No 10 after Argentina banner row
12:10 , Kieran Jackson
Downing Street has backed a minister’s call for Fifa to investigate whether Argentina players broke rules by waving a banner in support of their country’s claims to the Falkland Islands, saying: “The World Cup might not be ours, but the Falkland Islands definitely are.”
It comes after Argentine players held up a banner that read ‘Las Malvinas son Argentinas’, which translates to ‘The Falkland Islands are Argentinian’, in the wake of their 2-1 victory over England in the World Cup semi-final on Wednesday night.
The prime minister’s official spokesperson said: “Our position is unchanged, self determination rests with the islanders. Our commitment to the Falklanders will never waver.”
More below:
World Cup might not be ours but Falklands are, says No 10 after Argentina banner row
Jude Bellingham clarifies Lionel Messi confrontation in England’s World Cup semi-final loss to Argentina
12:00 , Kieran Jackson
Jude Bellingham insists he was simply “discussing a foul” with Lionel Messi as a clip of their heated confrontation in the World Cup semi-final went viral on social media.
Argentina captain Messi set up both late goals as the defending champions broke English hearts with a 2-1 victory in Atlanta while England’s star playmaker Bellingham, despite his last-16 and quarter-final heroics, was largely quiet in the final-four contest.
Yet Real Madrid midfielder Bellingham, who can speak fluent Spanish, was embroiled in a conversation with Messi in the first-half during a brief pause in play, resulting in Messi making a pointed facial expression and Bellingham laughing as he walked away.
Bellingham clarifies Messi confrontation in World Cup semi-final defeat
Wayne Rooney warned us about Thomas Tuchel’s fatal flaw – and nobody listened
11:40 , Lawrence Ostlere
England’s cowardly retreat against Argentina was a repeat of their strategy against Mexico two weeks earlier, and while that performance was hailed as heroic, it was deeply flawed – as the former England captain told us.
Wayne Rooney warned us about Thomas Tuchel’s fatal flaw – and nobody listened
The deeper question England must answer after latest World Cup failure
11:25 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Does English football need a total rethink? Miguel Delaney poses some interesting questions for the FA as he examines the Thomas Tuchel appointment and much, much more.
The deeper question England must answer after latest World Cup failure
Jamie Carragher: England find a way to fail at World Cups
11:11 , Jack Rathborn
“The truth is Tuchel, just like Southgate, took an England team who were not lighting up the tournament as far as most expected before it kicked off,” Carragher said in his Telegraph column.
“The problem for the FA is it did not anticipate Tuchel standing side by side with Southgate as a coach who came close, but could not find the added ingredient to beat one of the perennial tournament winners.
“Ultimately, the 2026 World Cup will be remembered as another missed opportunity. We are forced to accept that no matter who the England manager is or how big their reputation is, we keep finding a way to fail.”
Cristian Romero takes swipe at Gary Neville after Argentina beat England at World Cup
11:00 , Jack Rathborn
Cristian Romero has taken a swipe at Gary Neville over the pundit’s criticism of him following Argentina’s 2-1 victory over England in the World Cup semi-finals.
The former England right-back labelled Argentina’s Romero and Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez as “the best, worst centre-half pairing in the world” during the build-up to the semi-final in Atlanta.
But the pair, despite picking up yellow cards, defended resolutely, with the champions edging the contest to advance to a second successive final against Spain.
Cristian Romero takes swipe at Gary Neville after Argentina beat England
Harry Kane speaks out on his World Cup future after England’s devastating semi-final exit
10:50 , Harry Latham-Coyle
England captain Harry Kane has hinted at his desire to feature in another World Cup after his side’s semi-final heartbreak against Argentina.
Harry Kane speaks out on his World Cup future after England’s semi-final exit
HAVE YOUR SAY! Did Tuchel get it wrong against Argentina?
10:40 , Harry Latham-Coyle
10:30 , Jack Rathborn
Argentina
Leandro Paredes, 6: Another who tried his luck with the referee early on, though he grew into the game as Argentina started to see more of the ball. Was assured in possession and was perhaps unlucky to come off as Scaloni opted to change things.
Giuliano Simeone, 5: As industrious as ever in the first half but his touch and general play let him down on occasion. A similar story in the second half, but was unlucky to be on the end of a superb challenge from Spence. Came off as Argentina changed tactics.
Enzo Fernandez, 8: Seemed happy to just break up play early on but had the best effort of the first half as a well-hit drive flew narrowly over the bar. Remained key as Argentina began to dominate and scored a brilliant equaliser as he rifled in from outside the box.
Alexis Mac Allister, 7: The Liverpool man was everywhere for his side at one point and tracked back well to nullify England’s attacking threat. Was desperately unlucky to see a great diving header come back off the post.
Lionel Messi, 8: The Argentina legend sprung into life after his side went behind and dictated play throughtout as his team hunted an equaliser and then a winner. His cross for the second was brilliant, and he once again ends up playing a deciding part in a match of utmost importance.
Julian Alvarez, 6: Popped up on the wing and in central areas and carried Argentina’s threat for much of the game alongside Messi. Was unable to impose himself in attack but was lively and energetic throughout.
England v Argentina player ratings
10:10 , Jack Rathborn
England
Elliot Anderson, 7: Seemed to be everywhere at one point, and looked like the man tasked with marshalling Messi’s every move. Did it well in the first half but was deservedly booked. Couldn’t do much as Messi dropped deeper to affect play, but had a solid performance.
Declan Rice, 6: Also seemed to be everywhere and brought plenty of energy to the first portion of the first half, though again maybe wasn't quite himself. Was unable to take control of the midfield throughout.
Morgan Rogers, 6: Took on his man at the first opportunity and dovetailed well with James. Was left a little isolated at times but put in a brilliant cross for the opening goal and gave a performance deserving of his starting berth.
Jude Bellingham, 7: Argentina tried to antagonise him early on but he was up for the occasion. Won two dangerous free-kicks but was unable to impose himself on a first half that was disjointed from both sides. Helped England up the pitch in the second half but was another who was left a little isolated, especially after Gordon scored.
Anthony Gordon, 7: The Barcelona man has become one of England’s unsung heroes and he provided an early outlet for his and worked well with Spence in Atlanta. Escaped Molina superbly and finished equally as well as he scored the opening goal.
Harry Kane, 6: Dropped deep to help create but left England a little light up top. Overall the England captain was fairly anonymous as his side struggled in attack, especially after going ahead.
Romero takes swipe at Neville after Argentina beat England
10:00 , Jack Rathborn
Gary Neville criticised Argentina’s Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez, labelling them: “the best, worst centre-half pairing in the world”.
And the Tottenham defender has hit back at Neville, telling DSports: “The only thing that I hope for is that when I retire, I am not that stupid. Hopefully I won’t criticise a player or anyone.
“Because at the end of the day, we are doing our best for our national team. Sometimes it goes right for us, sometimes badly, but we are just happy to be in a World Cup final again.
“I think we are making history, for us it is something really huge, and we feel the significance of this shirt like no one else.”
Dan Burn admits manner of England loss 'very sad'
09:50 , Jack Rathborn
“I thought that we nailed the game plan,” Burn said. “We knew what Argentina would do.
“We got a bit passive after the goal, defended a bit too deep, the quality of chances Argentina created, it felt like a matter of time.
“We conceded too many crosses and too many chances. In the previous games, we've defended those so well. To get that close and not do it, it's very sad."
England v Argentina player ratings
09:40 , Jack Rathborn
Argentina
Emiliano Martinez, 6: Untroubled in the first half, and made a save he’d expect to make to keep it 1-0 in the second. Not a lot he could do about the Gordon goal, and remained untroubled after Argentina scored twice.
Nahuel Molina, 5: Battled well with Gordon and Spence in first half but wasn’t aware enough for the opening goal.
Cristian Romero, 6: Started well overall as Argentina were able to fend off any England pressure, but got a yellow card early into the second half after misjudging Bellingham. Didn’t have an awful lot to do in the second half and was not to blame for England’s goals.
Lisandro Martinez, 6: Started positively and was key in build-up as the Argentina defence remained untroubled for a lot of the first half, though got himself a yellow card late on. Was unlucky to see a header beaten away by Pickford after ghosting in, and was then subbed early as a precaution.
Nicolas Tagliafico, 6: Had a bit of a shaky start against Rogers but recovered well towards the end of the first half. Not a lot he could do about the goal and was fairly solid overall. Eventually replaced by Lautaro Martinez late on.
England v Argentina player ratings
09:30 , Jack Rathborn
England
Jordan Pickford, 6: The England goalkeeper could do little about the second goal but perhaps got his positioning a little off for the first. Can’t be blamed for not holding out after a surprising change in tactics.
Reece James, 6: Looked to get forward at every opportunity and troubled the Argentina defence at times. Helped England threaten and was solid enough in defence before coming off.
John Stones, 6: Another settled performance in the first half as neither side was able to really trouble the other. Was called into action much more frequently in the second half, and made a pivotal clearing header to prevent a ball across goal. Was up against it late on as England sat back.
Marc Guehi, 6: On the whole was also untroubled for the most part in the first half, and could do little about Argentina’s equaliser. Was another who was put up against it as Tuchel changed tactics, and was unable to hold out for the 30 minutes or so.
Djed Spence, 8: The Spurs defender was the player of the game for England. He made good early dribbles, made space for Gordon and looked a real threat in attack, while also putting in a superb sliding challenge to prevent Simeone right after England had scored.
Thomas Muller reacts to England's approach against Argentina
09:20 , Jack Rathborn
Thomas Muller: "Argentina plays a hell of a game, but I cannot believe how England approaches this game, especially after they're leading.
“I cannot understand to invite the whole Argentine game to hit one cross after the other in perfect crossing positions.”
COPA INDEPENDENT: England are out - the same story but at a greater expense?
09:10 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Lawrence Ostlere is joined by Richard Jolly in New Jersey and Miguel Delaney in Atlanta to react to England’s 2-1 World Cup semi-final loss to Argentina.
They argue England retreated too early after going 1-0 up, with Thomas Tuchel’s shift to a back five and the defensive substitution of Ezri Konsa for Anthony Gordon ceding midfield control and inviting pressure. Did Tuchel lose his bottle? And did his changes give Lionel Messi the time and space he needed to kill off England’s World Cup ambitions?
The panel debates England’s recurring inability to manage leads, Tuchel’s squad choices and midfield options, and the potential fallout for Tuchel and the FA ahead of Euro 2028.
A sad and familiar World Cup ending reveals regrets for England and Thomas Tuchel
09:00 , Harry Latham-Coyle
It all felt very familiar for England last night, Richard Jolly writes, as the World Cup hurt goes on.
A sad and familiar World Cup ending reveals regrets for England and Thomas Tuchel
What punishment could Argentina face for Falklands banner after England win?
08:45 , Harry Latham-Coyle
There is precedent for a possible punishment for Argentina, with their football association fined £20,000 in 2014 for a banner with a similar message.
What punishment could Argentina face for Falklands banner?
Minister hits out after Argentina players celebrate England win with ‘entirely inappropriate’ Falklands banner
08:35 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Argentina could, meanwhile, face punishment after several of their players celebrated with a banner referencing the Falkland Islands. Millie Cooke reports:
No 10 hits back over Argentina’s ‘Falklands are Argentinian’ banner
Gary Lineker questions ‘unfathomable’ England tactics against Lionel Messi and Argentina
08:25 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Gary Lineker has described England’s tactics against Lionel Messi and Argentina as “unfathomable” as Thomas Tuchel’s side let a 1-0 lead slip in the World Cup semi-final.
England’s hopes of lifting the World Cup were ended by a 2-1 defeat in Atlanta as Messi produced two late assists to turn the encounter his side’s way.
The defending champions again showed their tournament spirit to reach the final against Spain on Sunday, though were perhaps helped out by England’s defensive changes after Anthony Gordon had put them in front
Lineker questions ‘unfathomable’ England tactics against Lionel Messi and Argentina
Think you had it bad? I watched England lose to Argentina in Buenos Aires
08:15 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Some great scenes on the streets of Buenos Aires yesterday as Argentina celebrates the national team’s success – though I’m not sure Adam Hathaway much enjoyed his evening in the capital.
Think you had it bad? I watched England lose to Argentina in Buenos Aires
Thomas Tuchel says England not cursed after semi-final heartbreak against Argentina
08:05 , Harry Latham-Coyle
It’s always a good sign when a manager is answering questions about a World Cup curse following a semi-final....
Tuchel has ‘no regrets’ over defensive substitutions in England’s loss to Argentina
Thomas Tuchel speaks out on his England future amid criticism over World Cup exit
07:55 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Thomas Tuchel has confirmed he plans to stay on as England manager to Euro 2028, despite a disappointing exit at the hands of fierce rivals Argentina.
Before the tournament, Tuchel extended his contract through to the home Euros, which is being co-hosted by England, Wales, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.
And Tuchel said: “We keep on going with the contract until the home Euros. I’m looking forward to that even though right now it's difficult to look that far ahead.”
Thomas Tuchel speaks out on his England future amid criticism over World Cup exit
WATCH: Harry Kane admits England played too defensively
07:40 , Harry Latham-Coyle
A revealing admission from the England captain after a 2-1 defeat to Argentina.
‘We didn’t know what to do’: Why did England make so many defensive changes?
07:30 , Harry Latham-Coyle
One would have to say that Thomas Tuchel’s changes felt dangerous in the moment – were all three of Ezri Konsa, Dan Burn and Nico O’Reilly really required? Credit to Argentina for breaking them down, but Jamie Braidwood ponders the scenario.
‘We didn’t know what to do’: Why did England make so many defensive changes?
Thomas Tuchel lost his bottle and his pure cowardice ended England’s World Cup dream
07:15 , Mike Jones
And here is Miguel Delaney’s take from Atlanta – with tough questions for Thomas Tuchel to answer.
Thomas Tuchel lost his bottle and his pure cowardice ended England’s World Cup dream
Wayne Rooney blames Thomas Tuchel for England’s World Cup semi-final defeat: ‘It started from the manager’
07:00 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Among those to criticise Thomas Tuchel most strongly last night was Wayne Rooney, with the former England captain damning about the manager’s changes.
Rooney blames Tuchel for England’s semi-final defeat: ‘It started from the manager’
Thomas Tuchel retains FA’s backing despite heavy criticism after England’s World Cup exit
06:30 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Should Thomas Tuchel face the sack for the manner in which England ceded control in Atlanta? It is thought that the manager retains the FA’s backing.
Thomas Tuchel retains FA backing despite criticism after England’s World Cup exit
A damning statistic
05:00 , Mike Jones
England have been eliminated every time they have faced a top 10 ranked nation in the knockout stages of the World Cup since 1998.
That’s seven defeats from seven matches.
England v Argentina player ratings: Iconic defender earns 8/10 but Thomas Tuchel costs Three Lions
04:00 , Mike Jones
England suffered late heartbreak in their World Cup semi-final against Argentina as the defending champions produced a stunning late comeback to reach another final, where they will play Spain on Sunday.
The Three Lions, bidding to reach a first men’s World Cup final in 60 years, took the lead early in the second half when Anthony Gordon steered in a cross from Morgan Rogers.
It looked to be a crucial breakthrough, following a tetchy first half littered with fouls and which saw no shots on target, but England then dropped too deep and invited endless waves of pressure from Argentina.
Eventually, the defending champions broke through with Enzo Fernandez beating Jordan Pickford with a stunning goal from range before Lautaro Martinez grabbed the winner with a header at the back post.
England player ratings: Iconic defender earns 8/10 but Tuchel costs Three Lions
Golden Boot race
03:00 , Mike Jones
Lionel Messi’s two assists against England mean he is back in front in the race for the Golden Boot.
Here are the standings with the third-place play-off and the World Cup final left to play.
Lionel Messi (Argentina - eight goals, four assists)
Kylian Mbappe (France - eight goals, three assists)
Erling Haaland (Norway - seven goals)
Jude Bellingham (England - six goals, one assist)
Harry Kane (England - six goals, one assist)
Ousmane Dembele (France - five goals, two assists)
Mikel Oyarzabal (Spain - five goals, one assist)
Who is injured for the World Cup final?
02:00 , Mike Jones
The 2026 World Cup is hurtling towards a blockbuster final between Argentina and Spain, who will be praying not to suffer any untimely injury setbacks in their quest for global glory.
However, there are still some notable worries heading into the World Cup final, while France and England will also be sweating some issues ahead of the third-place play-off.
Who is injured for the World Cup final?
Thomas Tuchel has ‘no regrets’ over defensive substitutions in England’s loss to Argentina
01:00 , Mike Jones
Thomas Tuchel has insisted he has “no regrets” over the decision to make sweeping defensive substitutions after England took the lead in their World Cup semi-final exit to Argentina.
The Three Lions suffered a heartbreaking 2-1 defeat in Atlanta, with Argentina pulling off a stunning comeback after Anthony Gordon put England in front.
Tuchel has ‘no regrets’ over defensive substitutions in England’s loss to Argentina
England barely touched the ball after Gordon's goal
Thursday 16 July 2026 00:50 , James Hicken
It’s a horrible stat to have to see but between the 55th and 92nd minute England only managed to hold on to 20% possession.
12% - Average possession between Anthony Gordon's opener and Lautaro Martínez's winner (55th to 92nd minute):
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) July 15, 2026
12% - 🏴 England
88% - 🇦🇷 Argentina
Trapped. pic.twitter.com/J5S9wlHCpx
Thomas Tuchel speaks out on his England future amid criticism over World Cup exit
Thursday 16 July 2026 00:47 , Lawrence Ostlere
Thomas Tuchel has confirmed he plans to stay on as England manager to Euro 2028, despite a disappointing exit at the hands of fierce rivals Argentina.
Before the tournament, Tuchel extended his contract through to the home Euros, which is being co-hosted by England, Wales, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.
And Tuchel said: “We keep on going with the contract until the home Euros. I’m looking forward to that even though right now it's difficult to look that far ahead.”
Thomas Tuchel speaks out on his England future amid criticism over World Cup exit
'We are all so proud of you' - Prince of Wales praises England
Thursday 16 July 2026 00:40 , James Hicken
“Gutted. England, you gave it everything and we are all so proud of you.
“Thank you to everyone on and off the pitch, for an incredible tournament. The fight and belief you have shown has inspired us all. The most complete England team in a tournament. Hold your heads high.”
Celebrations in Buenos Aires
Thursday 16 July 2026 00:30 , James Hicken
Lionel Scaloni - what it means to the players.
Thursday 16 July 2026 00:10 , James Hicken
"This group never ceases to amaze me. What these players demonstrate is incredible. After this, it's very difficult to try to make people understand what they do on the field."
“We are unique, and that's not arrogance. The fans se are the ones who carried us to victory. This jersey demands it, give everything until the end, hold nothing back. They have shown once again that they feel this colours like no one else.
We were under pressure a bit, but the opponent doubted themselves. We smelt blood and went for it. We all felt it.
"There was a vacuum inside their goal. The ball went in after hitting the post twice.
“After England scored we showed a lot about our football. It’s more than tactics and playing pretty football.”
'Getting Messi on the wing was key for us' - Martinez post-match reaction
Wednesday 15 July 2026 23:59 , James Hicken
"It was crazy. I thought we played really well in the first half. We dominated them. We know how strong they are in set-pieces and how physical they are. I've played there for 16 years and I know them really well.
"We moved the ball well. They went in front with one cross into the box with only one in the box and they scored. We had the experience of coming back form losing positions. They started defending a little bit deeper and that gave us a bit of an advantage through the lines.
"Getting [Lionel] Messi on the wing was the key for us."
'They have the GOAT' - Micah Richards on Messi and Argentina
Wednesday 15 July 2026 23:50 , James Hicken
“They have Lionel Messi. They have the GOAT. The greatest of all time.
“Moments. We thought it could have been Bellingham or Kane, but this is why he is the king. Remarkable what he can do.
“Walk around the pitch and then he comes alive when the ball comes to his feet. This genius comes into play and sometimes that is just the difference.
“With Mexico and Norway they didn't have the quality on the day, but if you give Messi the time and space you will get punished.”
Argentina players celebrate beating England with ‘Falklands are Argentinian’ banner
Wednesday 15 July 2026 23:46 , Nicole Wootton-Cane
Argentinian players celebrated beating England in the World Cup semi-final with a banner reading “The Malvinas are Argentine” in a reference to the Falkland Islands.
Former Tottenham midfielder Giovani Lo Celso was among those holding the sign as his teammates danced on the pitch after their 2-1 win over the Three Lions in Atlanta on Wednesday.
Political slogans are banned from being displayed on the pitch or on players’ equipment according to Fifa rules.
Tension had again been building before the match over the sovereignty of the Falklands, an archipelago in the South Atlantic Ocean, 300 miles off the coast of Argentina which have been a British Overseas Territory since 1833.
Argentina players celebrate beating England with ‘Falklands are Argentinian’ banner
Hope remains for 2030...
Wednesday 15 July 2026 23:40 , James Hicken
Whilst there will be a number of players who will not feature at England’s next World Cup, Tuchel took an incredibly young and inexperienced squad to this tournament and it could be argued out performed expectations given the amount of criticism for he received for his choices.
But now, many of these players have experience in going deep at a World Cup and when they are in their primes at the next World Cup, will be able to serve with leadership and experience. Players like Bellingham, Saka, Rice, James, Guehi, O’Reilly, Spence, Anderson, Rogers and Gordon will all still be either under 30 or 31 come the next chance.
Dan Burn - 'Disappointing from us'
Wednesday 15 July 2026 23:30 , James Hicken
"Absolutely gutted. I thought we had the gameplan pretty well for the majority of it. But obviously, when we scored, we went a bit passive and dropped off and were ultimately punished for it,” Burn told BBC Sport.
“We probably conceded too many chances and if you do that, they are going to get goals. Disappointing from us. We have defended games better and seen them out. When you get that close to the World Cup final, that hurts."
A sad and familiar World Cup ending reveals regrets for England and Thomas Tuchel
Wednesday 15 July 2026 23:20 , Luke Baker
The Three Lions led Argentina in the semi-final but were unable to capitalise on their position says Richard Jolly, resulting in a loss reminiscent of recent major tournament failures.
A sad and familiar World Cup ending reveals regrets for England and Thomas Tuchel
England's struggle against top teams
Wednesday 15 July 2026 23:11 , James Hicken
7 - England have been eliminated every time they have faced a top 10 ranked nation in the knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup since 1998 (7/7).
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) July 15, 2026
Obstacle. pic.twitter.com/TsO5i5eZR5
Thomas Tuchel lost his bottle and his pure cowardice ended England’s World Cup dream
Wednesday 15 July 2026 23:06 , Miguel Delaney at Atlanta Stadium
England somehow lose a place in the World Cup final, because Thomas Tuchel loses his bottle.
This dogged campaign, that had England on the brink of their greatest moment since 1966, somehow ends as the worst yet: a 2-1 defeat to Argentina that should never have happened.
They ceded the initiative, ceded the pitch, ceded the space around their box and – finally – ceded the game. The decision to go to five at the back as early as the second-half hydration break – in the 67th minute – was inexplicable at the time and now feels like it will go down as one of the most confounding moments in English football history.
The hydration break saw the floodgates open for England. The criticism will rightly be scathing. There might not have been an actual trophy on the line, as in the Euro 2020 final, but the self-inflected collapse feels all the more needless and consequently much worse. Gareth Southgate never did this...
Read Miguel Delaney’s full report from Atlanta Stadium:
Thomas Tuchel lost his bottle and his pure cowardice ended England’s World Cup dream
Messi continues to prove that age is just a number
Wednesday 15 July 2026 23:04 , James Hicken
The Argentine great has now scored in assisted in 13 consecutive games for club and country.
This is the second longest streak of his entire career, at 39 years old, that is just insane
Was that last-chance saloon for Kane?
Wednesday 15 July 2026 23:03 , James Hicken
After an admirable World Cup on career best form where he became England’s all time leading scorer in all competitions and at World Cups, that could be the swan song for one of England’s greatest number nines
He will 36 by the time the next world cup rolls around, which is not out of the realms of possibility but is unlikely.
If this is to be the end at a World Cup then thank you Harry.
How Argentina won - the stats
Wednesday 15 July 2026 22:52 , James Hicken
Possession: Arg: 64% Eng: 36% (England had 12% possession between the first goal and the winner)
xG: Arg: 1.84 Eng: 0.53
Shots: Arg: 15 Eng: 5
Passes: Arg: 590 Eng: 325
Forward passes: Arg: 156 Eng: 90
'No regrets' - Tuchel offers his reaction
Wednesday 15 July 2026 22:48 , James Hicken
“We were so close but we got to passive after we scored and conceded a lot of chances and could not turn the ball possession around. We conceded so many crosses and chances and shots.
“We were close but we could not keep the level up after we scored.”
“Of course we wanted to go for the second goal, but I did not feel an offensive substitution would help. We stayed in our 4-4-2 but became passive and we couldn't win any balls and couldn't keep the ball, so I don’t think it was a structural problem.”
“No regrets, the team gave everything and we were very very close. We deserved to be up one nil, we played one of our better matches, maybe the best match, at the moment, no regrets.”
The pundits reaction
Wednesday 15 July 2026 22:40 , James Hicken
Wayne Rooney: “We got ourselves in such a good position and then we didn’t know what to do, we sat back and allowed then to come on to us. They were creating a number of chances, put us under pressure, we couldn’t get out and we cracked. As soon as they got the first goal it was inevitable they were going to get the second. Really disappointed.”
Joe Hart: “I think the guys have gone back to what they did against Mexico and what they did against Norway when they locked the door. But what that did was free up Lionel Messi who’s got a skeleton key. He absolutely ran the show for the last 15 minutes… in the end we felt as soon as that first goal was scored and England had made the changes, they’d made this is only going to end one way.”
Micah Richards: “I’m devastated because in the first half put up a good fight in terms of intensity, the tackles. We made a real fight of it but then this genius [Messi] comes into play and sometimes that is just the difference.”
Wayne Rooney: “Yeah but when you’re in a fight, when you’re on top you have to stay on top. We go one-nil and we sit back, we make changes, go five at the back, six at the back and if you allow Messi to come onto you and Argentina to come onto you, you’re asking for trouble.”
A heart-breaking statistic
Wednesday 15 July 2026 22:37 , James Hicken
There have only been two occasions in which a team has taken the lead in a World Cup semi-final and lost this century - both of them are England - 2026 and 2018.
Jubilation and dismay
Wednesday 15 July 2026 22:35 , James Hicken
Wayne Rooney - 'Devastated'
Wednesday 15 July 2026 22:32 , James Hicken
“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 the difference.
“The changes we made didn't help us. Devastated. Sometimes you need a bit of luck to win these tournaments.”
Harry Kane's immediate reaction
Wednesday 15 July 2026 22:24 , James Hicken
“Gutted for the boys, gutted for the team, the staff, the fans. We played a good game for the large majority of it, once we went one nil up we just we seemed to just try and hold on which at this level is not enough.
“We have worked so hard to be here, the lads have given every last bit of running sweat blood and tears, so to fall short is just gutting.
“When we went ahead the messaging was to go again and get another goal and then obviously when they scored two goals it was to try and find something but we couldn’t quiet get the momentum back in the game.
“We had a lot of good moments in this tournament, a lot of good games, another semi final. We talk about knocking on the door, we are close, we just need to find that missing piece in the final stage.”
Were substitutions the difference?
Wednesday 15 July 2026 22:16 , James Hicken
After 72 minutes it looked as though Tuchel has resigned his team to a defensive effort that may have been too big of a task by bringing Konsa on for Gordon.
The further bringing on O’Reilly and Burn left England with no proper attacking organisation when asked to go back at Argentina after 85 minutes.
Argentina brought on balanced subs in both defence in attack to be able to go on the front foot, but then have no issue in holding the line when England were forced to try and find a goal.
Argentina played a masterful game plan
Wednesday 15 July 2026 22:10 , James Hicken
Obviously the plan was not to concede, but from the start Argentina wanted a physical and demanding game, knowing they could come on strong late on as they have done so well at this tournament so far.
Messi had a fantastic second-half, floating crosses in from every angle, eventually someone was going to be on the end of it.
England sat back too far after taking the lead and Argentina are the kind of team that will kindly accept the invitation to come and attack. There is only so long you can keep the world champions out.
Full time: England 1-2 Argentina
Wednesday 15 July 2026 22:03 , James Hicken
Argentina have completed yet another last-ditch comeback against the odds to send themself to a second consecutive World Cup final where they will face European champions Spain for all the marbles.
Once again English hearts are broken in a semi final. They gave the fans so much to celebrate but it was just not enough on the night against the currently reigning best team in the world.
Substitutions: England 1-2 Argentina
Wednesday 15 July 2026 21:58 , James Hicken
90+4 mins: Rashford and Toney come on for Stones and Spence.
It has to be now...
Goal! England 1-2 Argentina
Wednesday 15 July 2026 21:54 , James Hicken
90+2 mins: Lautaro Martinez as a free header off a searching Messi ball.
This may be the dagger that sends England home - what a substitution.
England 1-1 Argentina
Wednesday 15 July 2026 21:51 , James Hicken
89 mins: Stones has gone down with a head injury.
England now have six defenders on the pitch and will have to try and find a winner, with Argentina carrying all the momentum.
Goal! England 1-1 Argentina
Wednesday 15 July 2026 21:47 , James Hicken
85 mins: After half a dozen attempts Enzo Fernandez has finally found the back of the net with a super strike that snuck through the defenders and just curls away from the out-stretched Pickford.
That is game on...
Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website
