Rooney slams Tuchel: "Panicked and sat back like a coward"

Following England's 2-1 defeat to Argentina in the World Cup's second semifinal, criticism has turned toward head coach Thomas Tuchel. Former England captain Wayne Rooney did not hold back in his post-match assessment: "Tuchel panicked after the goal and sat back like a coward."

Rooney's criticism points to the pivotal moment of the match. England took the lead in the 55th minute through Anthony Gordon, but failed to hold onto that advantage. The team's decision to cede the initiative and retreat into a defensive shape after scoring paved the way for Argentina's dramatic late turnaround, in which they found two goals to complete the comeback.

Rooney's remarks have sparked significant reaction within English football circles. The former star emphasized that Tuchel's tactical approach pushed the team back and handed Argentina exactly the space they wanted. The criticism marks one of the first major reactions following England's failure, once again, to reach the final they have craved since 1966 under Tuchel's management.

Image: The Sun