Tuchel vows to stay as England manager after Argentina's stoppage-time semi-final comeback

Thomas Tuchel has pledged to continue as England manager through to Euro 2028 after a painful 2-1 World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina in Atlanta on Wednesday, in which the reigning champions overturned Anthony Gordon’s second-half lead with two goals in the final 20 minutes.

Enzo Fernandez equalised before Lautaro Martinez completed the turnaround in the 92nd minute, with Lionel Messi providing the pass for the leveller and the cross for the winner. The result sends Argentina into the final against Spain.

Tuchel’s handling of the closing stages drew immediate criticism, particularly his decision to replace goalscorer Gordon with defender Ezri Konsa in the 72nd minute. Speaking after the match, Wayne Rooney was pointed in his assessment: “It was too passive. Thomas Tuchel didn’t change anything, but Argentina started to come onto them. Top managers counteract what is going on and don’t go even deeper. What they do is go more front-footed and try to change the tempo and rhythm of the game. I think he got it wrong. Against this team, the world champions, you will not get away with it. This has been the biggest test and we have failed it.”

Tuchel, however, expressed no regrets at his post-match news conference. “The team gave everything and we were very, very close,” the German said. “The team was top, we couldn’t bring it over the line, no — at the moment no regrets.”

The 51-year-old had extended his contract ahead of the tournament to cover Euro 2028, which is being co-hosted by England, Wales, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland. He reiterated that commitment despite the defeat. “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.”

England’s exit leaves questions about tactical flexibility at the highest level, but Tuchel’s position appears secure for now, with the prospect of a home European Championship providing a clear next target for the squad.