World Cup: England coach Tuchel calls for DNA change after semi-final exit

England's bid for a first World Cup final since 1966 ended in a familiar pattern of defeat, with coach Thomas Tuchel calling for a fundamental shift in the team's "DNA." The Three Lions fell 2-1 to Argentina in the semi-finals after taking an early lead, a scenario that has haunted English football in recent major tournaments.

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We became too passive within our defensive structure. I tried to adjust, not by switching to five defenders to become more conservative, but by wanting to play more actively, to press wingers faster, and not leave space between the four defenders.

Tuchel pointed to a passive approach after scoring as the key issue. "We became too passive within our defensive structure," he explained. "I tried to adjust, not by switching to five defenders to become more conservative, but by wanting to play more actively, to press wingers faster, and not leave space between the four defenders." He added that the team's inability to win individual duels led to them retreating deeper, a situation that unfolded despite the game plan.

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We couldn't win any one-on-one duels, which is why the defense retreated deeper. This was never our game plan, but that's how it happened.

The German coach believes England's struggles stem from a lack of possession-based play, contrasting it with the style of nations like Spain, Argentina, and Brazil. "I think possession plays an important role, perhaps it's not our 'DNA', unlike Spain, Argentina, or Brazil, who are good at possession, controlling the game. I think that's a big problem," Tuchel said.

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I think possession plays an important role, perhaps it's not our 'DNA', unlike Spain, Argentina, or Brazil, who are good at possession, controlling the game. I think that's a big problem.

Despite the disappointment, Tuchel affirmed his commitment to continuing as England's coach. "We still have a lot to improve, and I am very happy to lead the team through this," he stated, expressing his willingness to guide the team's development.

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We still have a lot to improve, and I am very happy to lead the team through this.