Thomas Tuchel has rejected suggestions that England are cursed after their dramatic 2-1 semi-final defeat to Argentina, insisting the loss should be viewed purely in footballing terms.
We Lost a Football Match, Not a Curse, Says Tuchel After Heartbreaking Exit
The Three Lions’ wait for a first World Cup final appearance since their 1966 triumph continues after late goals from the reigning champions shattered English dreams in Wednesday’s last-four clash.
Anthony Gordon’s 55th-minute strike gave England hope of ending their long-running tournament hoodoo, but Argentina turned the match on its head with two unanswered goals to seal their place in the final.
‘Two Completely Different Matches’
Tuchel described the contest as “two separate games” following the momentum shift after England’s opener.
“At that point of the match, it was deserved that we took our moment and went 1-0 up,” the German manager said.
“Unfortunately, it marked a complete momentum switch.”
The England boss observed that Argentina played with more freedom after falling behind, while his side appeared burdened by the weight of expectation.
“Argentina played with more risk and rhythm,” Tuchel explained.
“We suddenly played with a feeling that we had a lot to lose.”
Criticism Accepted
The former Chelsea manager has faced scrutiny for his defensive changes after taking the lead, but he remains unapologetic about his decisions.
“That’s just the nature of the game. As soon as you lose, you get criticised,” Tuchel said.
“No one knows what would have happened if we made different decisions. I’m responsible, so I take the criticism.”
No Curse, Just Football
When asked about England’s historical struggles on the biggest stage, Tuchel dismissed any supernatural explanations.
“I don’t believe in an English thing or a curse,” he stated firmly.
“It’s different coaches, different players, different situations, different opponents. I believe in the football thing.”
England now face France in Saturday’s third-place play-off, a match Tuchel admits carries little consolation after such a bitter defeat.
“A lot of big football nations are eliminated before the semi-final, so it is an achievement,” he conceded.
“But no one wants to hear that at the moment. Me neither, because we demand the most of ourselves.”
