Harry Kane described himself as 'gutted' after England's World Cup dreams were shattered in a dramatic semi-final defeat to Argentina, a night that also saw FIFA forced to respond to a political banner about the Falkland Islands unfurled by Argentina players.
Thomas Tuchel's side led 1-0 with five minutes of normal time remaining at Atlanta Stadium after Anthony Gordon's goal, but defensive changes and an inability to keep possession proved pivotal. A stunning equaliser from Enzo Fernandez and an injury-time header from substitute Lautaro Martinez sent the reigning champions into Sunday's final against Spain.
“England lose World Cup semi-final 2-1 to Argentina after leading, with Kane 'gutted' and FIFA responding to Falklands banner.”
Wayne Rooney pointed the finger of blame squarely at Tuchel, whose substitutions badly backfired. Despite calls for him to vacate his post, Tuchel vowed to continue. 'We keep on going with the contract until the home Euros,' he said. 'I'm looking forward to that even though right now it's difficult to look that far ahead.'
Kane, who struggled in the first half according to pundits, gave his analysis after the match. 'Gutted,' he said in a BBC video, later adding 'We go again' in a statement reported by the Standard. The England captain felt his side still has missing pieces.
The controversy did not end with the final whistle. Argentina players celebrated post-match with a flag declaring 'The Falklands belong to Argentina', prompting FIFA to release a statement. Both national anthems had been booed by opposing supporters.
Tuchel slammed his team's performance as 'passive', admitting the collapse was hard to take. With the German's contract running until Euro 2028, the immediate question is whether he can rebuild a squad that once again came so close, only to fall short at the final hurdle.
