FA backs Thomas Tuchel after Argentina semifinal loss

England manager Thomas Tuchel will remain in his post despite widespread criticism of his tactics following the team's dramatic 2-1 defeat to Argentina in the FIFA World Cup semifinal on Wednesday, July 15, 2026. The Football Association has confirmed its continued backing for the German coach, who is under contract to lead the national team through the UEFA European Championship in 2028.

The loss in Atlanta saw England surrender a 1-0 lead in the closing minutes, dashing hopes of a first men's World Cup final appearance since 1966. Anthony Gordon had put England ahead in the 55th minute, but Enzo Fernández equalized with a long-range strike in the 85th before Lautaro Martínez headed home a Lionel Messi-assisted winner in the second minute of added time.

The collapse triggered intense scrutiny of Tuchel's decisions, particularly a series of defensive substitutions in the final half-hour. The manager brought on additional center-backs, at one point deploying five or six defenders, as England dropped deep to protect their lead. Statistical analysis indicated England held just 12 percent of possession from the moment they scored until conceding the winner.