The report says Thomas Tuchel’s side shifted into a more defensive posture after taking control of the match. That choice brought Harry Kane deeper, reducing England’s threat in the final third while placing greater pressure on the back line.
There is nothing unusual about managing a lead in a knockout match. The problem is that England appeared to surrender too much initiative. Argentina, with Fernández able to influence possession and Martínez offering a sharper presence near goal, were allowed to build momentum when England needed to keep the contest uncomfortable.
Trump questioned the tactical switch during a reception, describing the approach as “incomum”. The comment drew laughter, but the broader criticism will resonate with supporters still waiting for England’s next World Cup triumph.
Argentina’s response reflected the resilience expected from a heavyweight tournament team. Rather than accepting defeat, they continued to press for openings and found them in the closing stages.
Fernández’s influence in midfield helped Argentina regain control, while Martínez supplied the decisive attacking edge. For England, Gordon’s contribution was overshadowed by the failure to turn an advantage into a complete performance. Kane’s deeper role also left questions about whether the captain was being used where he could hurt Argentina most.
The event also prompted a wider celebration from Fifa president Gianni Infantino, who called the tournament the “greatest human, social and cultural event humanity has ever witnessed”. Infantino described the atmosphere as “safe and joyful” and said “the American dream has become a reality”.
The next storyline will be whether Tuchel doubles down on game management or restores England’s attacking ambition when the pressure rises again. For Argentina, the late victory could become the moment their campaign truly gathered force.