England's credibility in big matches is being questioned after their 2-1 defeat against Argentina in the World Cup semi-final. Coach Thomas Tuchel harshly criticized his team's performance in his statement after the 2-1 victory in the quarter-final against Norway. The late collapse against Argentina dashed England's hopes of reaching the men's World Cup final for the first time since 1966 and brought back many past disappointments.

England, with its consecutive Euro final losses and elimination by Croatia in the 2018 World Cup semi-final, has fueled discussions about becoming an 'almost' team. Effort, spirit and ability to create big moments are admirable, but it is not enough for England to achieve their goals. The devastating final collapse against Argentina became part of a list of disappointments spanning 60 years.

England's World Cup campaign has progressed under the leadership of world-class talents such as captain Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham. The Three Lions have scored 12 of the 14 goals they have scored so far with these two players. However, injury and illness problems for Arsenal's Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka have reduced the effectiveness of key players on whom Tuchel can rely. John Stones is still a quality football player, but he is 32 years old. The other players are generally reliable but not outstanding.

England do not have the all-pervasive quality of World Cup finalists and European champions like Spain. Argentina, on the other hand, has a desire for invincibility, supported by the unique genius of Lionel Messi. This limited England's campaign and was sometimes saved by fleeting chances. For example, when they fell behind against DR Congo, Kane's two late goals saved them from a big loss. Against Norway, Bellingham was a savior with two goals.

Although Tuchel praised England's mentality, he did not hesitate to criticize their lack of quality. England achieved a great victory by beating Mexico at the Azteca Stadium, but whether they played really good football behind this victory is a matter of debate. Tuchel believes that they can show the football skill they have, but they do not know how to control this talent.Tactically, it is clear that England are built with a Premier League style system. However, at an elite level like the World Cup, more is needed. England are physically strong but, apart from Kane and Bellingham, lack the X-factors that can make a difference in big matches. What is worrying for the Football Association is that they have now tried everything. Tuchel had arrived as an alternative to Gareth Southgate, but this time, in a semi-final where he lost control, many began to think that Southgate was inadequate.

As a result, England reaching the semi-finals but remaining at this level does not add quality. The team's current squad and the players Tuchel used were once again insufficient.