England manager Tuchel says DNA must change after loss

England manager Thomas Tuchel has stated the national team's footballing "DNA" must change after a dramatic late collapse saw Argentina eliminate them from the World Cup semifinals on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, in Atlanta. Leading 1-0 after Anthony Gordon's 55th-minute goal, England surrendered possession and territory, conceding twice in the final minutes to lose 2-1 and extend their wait for a second World Cup title to at least 64 years.

Tuchel has faced intense scrutiny for his in-game management, particularly his decision to substitute goalscorer Gordon for defender Ezri Konsa shortly after taking the lead and switching to a five-man defense. Further defensive changes saw Dan Burn and Nico OReilly replace Reece James and Declan Rice. Argentina capitalized on England's retreat, with Enzo Fernandez equalizing before Lautaro Martinez scored a late winner, both assisted by Lionel Messi.

In defending his tactics, Tuchel argued his intention was not to invite pressure but to make his team more active. He acknowledged, however, a fundamental issue with England's ability to control games. "I think ball possession plays a crucial role," Tuchel said. "It's maybe not in our DNA like it...