England were on the cusp of reaching their first men's World Cup final since 1966, leading 1-0 against reigning champions Argentina through Anthony Gordon's 55th-minute goal. But from the 84th minute, the match unraveled: Enzo Fernandez equalized in the 85th minute and Lautaro Martinez headed a 92nd-minute winner, both assisted by Lionel Messi.

Manager Thomas Tuchel switched to a defensive approach after the lead, introducing three defenders—Ezri Konsa, Dan Burn, and Nico O'Reilly—while forwards Marcus Rashford and Ivan Toney arrived only in stoppage time. England managed just 12% possession from going ahead to conceding the second goal.

Former captains Wayne Rooney and Alan Shearer called the tactics "passive" and a "coaching catastrophe." Chris Sutton questioned Tuchel's future, while Joe Hart noted Argentina showed "belief" not panic. Even Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez said England "changed the gameplan" by sitting back.

Harry Kane admitted England "tried to hold on, which at this level is not enough." Tuchel defended his decisions, saying "no regrets" and praising the team's mentality, but critics argue his caution cost England a place in Sunday's final against Spain.