On the back of England’s World Cup exit against Argentina, there will be quite the inquest on how they made such a mess of the semi-final in Atlanta.
England looked to be in a fantastic position to win the game, going ahead with just over half an hour to go. What unfolded over the remaineder of the contest is likely to be a talking point across the Irish Sea for years to come.
Thomas Tuchel made some incredibly negative changes, having six defenders on the pitch in an attempt to defend the lead. This only served to invite further pressure from Argentina, who scored two late goals to secure a 2-1 victory.
Dunphy criticises Thomas Tuchel over Declan Rice England call
Thomas Tuchel has already received a huge amount of criticism for his approach in this game, with many believing his overly negative tactics cost England a potential World Cup final place.
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While that is an obvious critique of the German coach, some have pointed out more subtle mistakes he made for this game.
Writing in the Irish Mirror, Eamon Dunphy said that Tuchel’s persistence with Declan Rice in the team despite his fitness issues was a huge error that ultimately cost England.
England’s players deserve criticism – but not as much as their manager.
Declan Rice shouldn’t even have been on the pitch.
If reports are true that illness left him bedridden for three days after the Mexico game, why was he starting a World Cup semi-final?
That decision belongs to one man – Tuchel…
England have outstanding footballers – Bellingham, Saka, Rice, Gordon, Kane. They should be playing progressive football. Instead they looked frightened. That fear came from the bench.
What caused Declan Rice England drop off?
Declan Rice has suffered with his fitness throughout this tournament, nursing a hamstring injury since earlier this season. Concerns surrounding the midfielder were further compounded when he picked up a virus in North America, something that apparently left him bed bound for three days after the last-16 win over Mexico.
The Arsenal star would come off at halftime in the quarter-final against Norway. He would then start against Argentina, this time lasting 83 minutes before being replaced by Nico O’Reilly as England attempted to hold onto their lead.
Declan Rice is not the only Arsenal star to have fitness issues in this World Cup, with Mikel Arteta’s players feeling the effects of another gruelling season at club level. Bukayo Saka was not at his best for England, while William Saliba looks set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines after aggravating a back injury in France’s semi-final loss to Spain.
