Tuchel urges England to finish strongly in emotional address

What the report says

BBC Sport reports that England manager Thomas Tuchel has urged his squad to recover from their World Cup semi-final defeat by Argentina and complete the tournament positively. The address came after the team returned to their Kansas City base following Wednesday’s 2-1 loss, with England due to face France in Saturday’s third-place match in Miami.

According to BBC Sport, Tuchel told the players he remained proud of their campaign in North America, where England reached only the fourth men’s World Cup semi-final in the country’s history. A win over France would give England their best men’s World Cup finish since the 1966 title, adding significance to a bronze-medal fixture that can otherwise be difficult for disappointed semi-finalists.

The report says Tuchel’s relationship with the squad has drawn attention after the manner of the Argentina defeat. England had led through Anthony Gordon before Tuchel switched to a back five and used several defensive substitutions. Argentina then came back late, with Lionel Messi setting up goals for Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez, the latter in the 92nd minute. BBC Sport says some key players were disappointed with how England were directed to manage the closing stages.

Tuchel has rejected the suggestion that England’s deep retreat was his intended plan, saying the side did not set out to drop back. He is expected to face questions about the tactics before the France match. BBC Sport adds that Tuchel, appointed in January 2025 and later given a two-year extension, retains Football Association backing and is expected to lead England towards Euro 2028.