England loses 2-1 to Argentina in 2026 WC semi-final, Tuchel blames DNA

England lost 2-1 to Argentina in the 2026 World Cup semi-final on July 16, despite taking the lead in the 55th minute. Argentina responded with two goals to advance to the final, leaving England to contend for third place. England manager Thomas Tuchel said after the match that his side lacked the necessary 'DNA' to control games, describing the team as too passive and not physical enough. He noted that after England's goal, momentum swung, ball possession dropped, and the side could not stop runners arriving from midfield or handle deliveries into the box. Tuchel added that the inability to win duels forced England to drop deeper, contrary to the original plan, and that ball possession plays a crucial role—a trait he sees more in Spanish, Argentinian, or Brazilian teams than in English football.

For Nigerian fans watching their own team’s quest for World Cup qualification, the match underscores that tactical discipline, physicality, and the ability to maintain possession are vital even when leading. It shows that a lead can evaporate quickly if a team cannot win midfield battles or handle pressure. The result also fuels debate about whether England’s traditional style needs evolution to compete with sides that dominate possession.

What should you take from this? Consider how Nigeria’s midfield can be strengthened to win duels and retain ball under pressure, and whether adopting a more possession-based approach could help the Super Eagles in future tournaments.

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/07/17/2026-world-cup-why-argentina-beat-england-2-1-tuchel/