England legend Michael Owen has delivered a fierce critique of Thomas Tuchel’s tactics, likening the ultra-defensive approach to that of a local pub side. Following the Three Lions’ devastating 2-1 loss to Argentina in the 2026 World Cup semi-final, Owen branded the manager’s defensive game plan as “rubbish” and the opposite of bravery.

Owen blasts Tuchel’s defensive setup

In his post-match analysis from Atlanta, Owen was sharply critical of Tuchel’s decisions. Despite Anthony Gordon giving England an early advantage, the team quickly shifted into a deep defensive block — a move that Owen described as a major tactical misjudgment.

Speaking to BBC Sport, the former Liverpool and Real Madrid striker said: “Dropping deep, putting 11 men behind the ball, and just booting it clear or heading it out isn’t bravery. Taking a ball in the face and bleeding doesn’t make you brave either. That’s not football. I could get my local pub team to do that. It’s the complete opposite of courage.”

Tuchel’s late substitutions prove costly

Tuchel’s attempt to preserve the 1-0 lead saw him introduce three defenders midway through the second half. However, the defensive changes backfired, as the reigning world champions seized control of possession and ultimately staged a comeback to seal their place in the final.

Owen argued that such instructions sent the wrong message to both England’s players and their opponents. By sitting deep and inviting pressure, England handed control to Lionel Messi, who expertly exploited the space in the attacking third to turn the match around.

How the Mexico win played a role

England had adopted a similar defensive mindset in their round-of-16 win over Mexico, a match they played largely with ten men following Jarell Quansah’s red card. Owen believes that the praise for that performance created a dangerous illusion that such negative tactics could consistently bring success.

“That’s where we lost the tournament – celebrating the Mexico win as if it was the right way,” Owen explained. “When players start thinking, ‘We won, so this must work,’ it embeds the wrong mentality. Then, when you go 1-0 up against Argentina, the manager brings on three defenders – what message does that send to the opposition?”

Guehi questions England’s defensive mindset

England defender Marc Guehi echoed Owen’s sentiments, expressing disappointment over the team’s decision to sit back after taking the lead. He felt that England should have maintained their attacking intent rather than trying to defend the narrow advantage.

“After we went 1-0 up, it seemed like we just wanted to hold on – and at this level, that’s not enough. I’m gutted,” Guehi said. “We should have kept pushing forward. It felt like we scored and then immediately decided to drop back and defend.”