England were six minutes from a first World Cup final in 60 years. Then the fates intervened, again, in the most brutal fashion possible. Thomas Tuchel’s side had taken the lead through Anthony Gordon shortly after half-time, and a first appearance in the final since 1966 looked within reach. But Argentina, the reigning champions, summoned their champion courage. Enzo Fernández drove in a fierce equaliser in the 86th minute after Lionel Messi worked a short corner. Then, in stoppage time, Messi recycled a move on the right, jinked, and crossed deep. Lautaro Martínez, unmarked, headed home. England hearts, broken.
The collapse was self-inflicted. Tuchel, appointed for his tactical acumen, had sought to preserve the lead by switching to a back five at the hydration break in the 67th minute, bringing on Ezri Konsa for Gordon. The same approach had seen out a 3-2 win over Mexico in the last 16 when England were down to 10 men. But with 11 on the pitch, and against Argentina, it invited pressure. “We decided to go to a back five to try and close the gaps and be strong in the air,” Tuchel said. “Straight after our goal with no substitutions we conceded way too many crosses and chances.” Yet the tactical shift neutered England’s pace and athleticism. Argentina dominated the closing stages. “It was their attack versus England’s defence,” the Guardian noted. The equaliser was well signposted. Alexis Mac Allister had already hit the post twice. “We were close but couldn’t keep the level up after we scored,” Tuchel said, a comment that drew accusations of blaming his players. Joe Hart slammed the manager for a perceived lack of belief, and fans called the substitutions cowardly.
“England's World Cup dream ends in stoppage time as Argentina score twice in final minutes”
“This is on Tuchel,” one fan wrote. Another said: “Tuchel was very quick to criticize his players but never took responsibility.” The manager himself acknowledged the criticism: “It’s easy to say it was wrong. Ultimately the responsibility is on the coach.” England now face a third-place playoff in Miami against an unknown opponent. The world, instead, will have a Messi final against Spain.