Tuchel takes blame for defeat but defends decisions, calls loss a 'scar'

England head coach Thomas Tuchel has defended his tactical decisions during the World Cup semi-final defeat by Argentina, taking full responsibility but insisting he has no regrets.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of Saturday's third-place play-off against France in Miami, Tuchel said: "If you need someone to blame, I take the responsibility." He described the 2–1 loss as "the scar we carry now."

Tuchel acknowledged that England became "too passive" in the last 35 minutes after taking a 1–0 lead. He explained that Argentina found another gear and applied relentless pressure, forcing England to defend deeper. The decision to switch to a back five to counter crosses did not work, as the team failed to stop runners into the box.

When asked why captain Harry Kane played so deep, Tuchel said: "That's what you do if you defend in a block. We were not active enough."

The German coach also cited the physical toll of earlier matches – playing with 10 men against Mexico in high altitude and the heat of Miami against Norway – as possible reasons for a drop in performance data, though he stressed he did not want to make excuses.

Tuchel admitted there is still a gap between England and top teams like France, Spain, and Argentina, who expect to win titles. He vowed to keep chasing and closing that gap.

Despite the pain, Tuchel noted that a win against France would give England their best World Cup result in 60 years. He said the team feels the pain the most and will overcome it, starting with a reaction in the bronze-medal game.

The press conference was marked by Tuchel's visible emotion, but he faced all questions directly, defending his efforts during the late capitulation.