FIFA World Cup 2026: Thomas Muller "surprised" by England's tactics in semifinal loss to Argentina
Berlin, July 16
Former German footballer Thomas Muller expressed surprise over England's tactics after their 2-1 defeat to Argentina in the FIFA World Cup semifinal, questioning the Three Lions' decision to sit back after taking the lead.
England went ahead through Anthony Gordon's 55th-minute strike but were unable to hold on as Argentina staged a late comeback, with Enzo Fernandez equalising in the 85th minute before Lautaro Martinez scored the winner in stoppage time.
Reacting to England's performance in a video posted on his Instagram handle, Muller said he struggled to understand the team's approach, especially after they had taken the lead.
"I cannot believe and understand how England approaches this game, especially after they were leading (1-0). I cannot understand to invite the whole Argentinian team to hit one cross after the other in perfect crossing positions. It's hard to understand," Muller said in a video posted on his Instagram handle.
Argentina defeated England 2-1 in a high-voltage FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal to reach their seventh World Cup final. The defending champions came from behind after Anthony Gordon gave England the lead in the 55th minute, but late goals from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez completed Argentina's comeback.
England struggled to maintain their advantage after taking the lead, allowing Argentina to build pressure. Lionel Messi played a key role in the comeback, assisting Fernandez's equaliser and setting up Martinez's stoppage-time winner.
Argentina will face Spain in the final on July 19 at the New York-New Jersey Stadium, while England will meet France in the third-place playoff after their hopes of reaching their first final since 1966 ended.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Thomas Muller knows what he's talking about - he's won a World Cup after all. England's tactics were absolutely baffling. Why would you sit back on a 1-0 lead with 30 minutes left? That's just asking for trouble. Southgate needs to answer for this. 🤔
In India we say "haath ka khel dikhaya" - and that's exactly what Argentina did. Messi's vision for those assists was unreal. But credit to England too, Gordon's goal was a beauty. However, defending deep against Argentina is suicide - they have too many quality attackers.
Honestly, England's tactical approach was like our Indian cricket team defending 150 in T20s - you just know it's not enough. 🏏⚽ Argentina's never-say-die attitude is inspiring. Muller's criticism is spot on - sitting back invites pressure. Great football lesson for young players here in India too.
I think we're being too harsh on England. They showed good organization for 80 minutes. The issue was they tired out after pressing hard in the first half. Muller's point is valid though - once you score, you need to keep the pressure on, not invite it. Argentina's bench depth also made the difference. Good luck to them against Spain! 🇦🇷
Watching this from India, I couldn't help but think of our own national team's struggles with game management. England had the lead but no plan B. Muller's a legend for calling it out. Argentina showed champion mentality - they never panicked, just
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