Kane says England missing final piece after World Cup semi loss
8 reported
England captain Harry Kane stated the team is "missing that final piece of the jigsaw" after a 2-1 defeat to Argentina in the 2026 World Cup semi-finals in Atlanta. England took the lead through Anthony Gordon in the 55th minute but conceded two late goals to Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez. Manager Thomas Tuchel has been criticized for becoming too defensive after going ahead, with England having only 12% possession from the goal until Argentina's second in the 92nd minute. Former captain Wayne Rooney said Tuchel's side "crumbled" and became "too passive." Tuchel said it was never the plan to drop deeper and that controlling the game may not be in the team's DNA. England will now face France in the third-place play-off on Saturday. The Football Association's chief executive Mark Bullingham backed the team to use "learnings" from the defeat and challenge for silverware at the co-hosted Euro 2028.
What’s reported
England lost 2-1 to Argentina in the World Cup semi-finals in Atlanta.
Anthony Gordon scored England's goal in the 55th minute.
Argentina scored two late goals through Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez.
England had only 12% possession from going ahead to conceding the second goal after 92 minutes.
Former captain Wayne Rooney said Tuchel's side "crumbled" and became "too passive."
Tuchel said it was never the plan to drop deeper and that controlling the game may not be in the team's DNA.
England will play France in the third-place play-off on Saturday.
FA chief executive Mark Bullingham said the team will use "learnings" for Euro 2028.
Key figures
Harry Kane, England captain and Bayern Munich forward
Thomas Tuchel, England manager
Anthony Gordon, England forward (moved from Newcastle United to Barcelona)
Wayne Rooney, former England captain
Jude Bellingham, England attacking midfielder (Real Madrid)
Morgan Rogers, Aston Villa midfielder
Mark Bullingham, Football Association chief executive
Enzo Fernandez, Argentina player
Lautaro Martinez, Argentina player
Michael Chandler, England team driver
Sources: BBC News
