Wayne Rooney launched a scathing critique of Thomas Tuchel's tactical approach after England were eliminated from the World Cup in agonizing fashion, falling 2-1 to Argentina in the semi-finals.
England had looked in control after Anthony Gordon fired them ahead in the 55th minute, but Tuchel's response to taking the lead proved fatal. Rather than pushing for a second goal, the German manager opted for defensive substitutions, switching to five at the back and effectively handing Argentina the initiative.
The South Americans seized control of proceedings, and the equalizer duly arrived through Enzo Fernandez. With momentum firmly on their side, Argentina kept pushing and were rewarded just over six minutes later when Lautaro Martinez struck the winner to send his nation through.
Former England and Manchester United striker Rooney was unsparing in his assessment of Tuchel's decisions. "We've crumbled... it started from the manager," Rooney said after the final whistle.
He continued: "Once we got the first goal, we didn't look to go for the second goal. For the players, and for me, Thomas Tuchel made the decision, and when you make the decision it is a gamble."
Rooney added: "The gamble he made was to go with five at the back, which allowed them to dictate the game. The decisions that Tuchel has made cost us tonight."