Thomas Tuchel stands by his heavily criticized defensive substitutions in England's World Cup semi-final defeat against Argentina this summer, but admits they came too early.

In the match held in Atlanta, England struggled to cope with Argentina's attacking tactics after Anthony Gordon scored the opener on the hour mark. Tuchel noted that fatigue and past success with a back five influenced his decision to protect the lead, a choice that ultimately proved disastrous as goals from Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez ended England's hopes of reaching their first World Cup final since 1966.

Tuchel emphasized his personal connection to the defeat, stating, "You can try to kill me here. But it’s my scar, it’s not your scar. No one is more hurt than me, no one wanted it more." He acknowledged that while attacking substitutions could have been made, the outcome remains uncertain.

The German coach described the chaotic nature of Argentina's play, saying, "They played fuck-it football: ‘We have nothing to lose. Let’s fuck it.’" His decision to substitute Gordon for Ezri Konsa was made in response to Argentina's aggressive tactics, but he reflected, "It’s too early. Too early for that mindset."

Tuchel's decisions have faced scrutiny, including calls for his dismissal following the semi-final loss, but he maintains that he acted based on the situation at hand, aiming to adapt to the pressure from Argentina.