Henry Blames Tuchel’s Defensive Switch For England’s World Cup Heartbreak

France legend Thierry Henry has criticised England manager Thomas Tuchel for adopting a defensive approach too early in the Three Lions’ 2-1 defeat to Argentina in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

England appeared to be on course for a place in their first World Cup final since 1966 after Anthony Gordon fired them into the lead shortly after the restart at Atlanta Stadium.

However, Tuchel reshuffled his side into a more defensive formation in an attempt to protect the advantage, a move that backfired as Argentina piled on the pressure.

Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández levelled the scores before Lautaro Martínez struck a dramatic late winner to send the defending champions into Sunday’s final.

Marcus Rashford and Ivan Toney were only introduced during stoppage time, by which stage England were already chasing the game.

Speaking on FOX Sports, Henry argued that Tuchel abandoned his attacking intentions too quickly after Gordon’s goal.

“As a coach on the bench, things happen very quickly,” Henry said.

“Marcus Rashford was actually about to come on before Anthony Gordon scored.

“Once England took the lead, they switched to a back five, and for me that happened too early.

“They then lost Reece James and brought on Nico O’Reilly, who ended up playing out wide.

“Argentina equalised, then suddenly you’re asking yourself how to change the game from that system. They scored again, and only then did England start bringing on attacking players.

“It isn’t easy making decisions from the bench, but they went defensive far too early. You don’t beat a team like Argentina by simply sitting back and giving them the ball.”

Henry’s assessment echoes growing criticism of Tuchel’s tactical decisions, with several former players questioning England’s conservative approach after taking the lead.

The Three Lions will now look to finish the tournament on a positive note when they face France in Saturday’s third-place play-off, while Argentina prepare for a blockbuster World Cup final against Spain.