Patrick Vieira believes England's lack of a clear identity was a key factor in their World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina, rather than just tactical decisions by manager Thomas Tuchel. The Three Lions took the lead through Anthony Gordon in the 55th minute but then retreated, inviting pressure and ultimately losing 2-1.
England's defensive approach backfires
After Gordon's opener, England adopted a defensive posture, dropping deep into their own penalty box. Tuchel made negative substitutions, and Argentina exploited the space. Enzo Fernandez equalized in the 85th minute, and Lautaro Martinez headed the winner from a Lionel Messi cross in stoppage time.
Vieira criticized the approach, stating it does not suit England's strengths. 'England's way of playing the game is on the front foot, you have to go to press, you have to play with intensity, first balls, second balls,' the former Arsenal captain said on The Rest Is Football. 'England players are not set to defend inside the box, it is not Italy.'
Identity crisis deeper than tactics
Vieira argued that the issue goes beyond Tuchel's in-game decisions. He pointed to Spain and Argentina as teams with clear identities that remain consistent whether winning, losing, or drawing. 'The biggest question is, do you really think it's the tactical side of the games? Yes it can impact the result, but there is as well the lack of identity of the England team,' Vieira said. 'They are not playing their own game.'
The World Cup winner highlighted that Spain impressed him against France by maintaining their style. 'When you look at England, they don't have that,' he added.
Defensive frailties exposed
Vieira noted that even when England packed the box with defenders, they failed to defend crosses effectively. 'The second goal they concede, you had the back five, big guys but they concede on crosses. The way they defend inside the box, if it was an Italian team, Lautaro would not be by himself,' he said. 'Their approach in the last 10 minutes, it doesn't represent England.'
England's defeat means Argentina will face Spain in the World Cup final, while England exit after a promising campaign that fell short in the semi-finals.
