World Cup 2026: Ex-Eagles Coach Knocks Tuchel Over England's Defeat

World Cup 2026: Ex-Eagles Coach Knocks Tuchel Over England's Defeat

Sampson Adedeji

Former Super Eagles head coach Sunday Oliseh has criticized England manager Thomas Tuchel over his tactical approach in the Three Lions' 2-1 defeat to Argentina in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

England looked set to reach the final after Anthony Gordon gave them the lead early in the second half.

However, Argentina mounted a late comeback, with Enzo Fernández equalising in the 84th minute before substitute Lautaro Martínez netted the winner in stoppage time.

Reacting to the result, Oliseh described Tuchel's game management as one of the poorest he had witnessed in World Cup history.

 "One of the worst-managed games in World Cup history. Leading 1-0 with over 25 minutes left, and you park the entire bus inside your own box? Pulling the lone striker deep invited relentless pressure. When you stop playing and only defend, a 2-1 heartbreak is inevitable," Oliseh said.

The former Nigerian international acknowledged that protecting a narrow lead in a World Cup semi-final was understandable but questioned England's inability to retain possession and relieve pressure.

"Defending a 1-0 lead in the semifinals is logical. But it is amateurish and shockingly naive to not have the possibility to play out when you eventually have possession," he added.

England's defeat means Argentina will face Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final in New York, while the Three Lions' wait for a second World Cup title continues.