16 Jul 2026 08:06:36
England got everything they deserved from the game.
Out fought on the park.
Out thought of the park.
Shutting up shop at this level with 20+ minutes to go is criminal.
They were in control at 1-0 and for the 2nd game in a row, Tuchel took of one of his best performers - Gordon.
And went 5 at the back allowing Messi the space to do his stuff.
Compare and contrast to Spain who, up against one of the tournament favourites got that 2 goal cushion and then seen out the game comfortably.
At least Baddiel & Skinner will keep making money from the royalties.
All together now - 🎶64 years of hurt, Jules Rimet still gleaming🎶
16 Jul 2026 08:16:49
Spot on mph. In the end the better team won. Thought Messi was incredible tbh, though greatly helped by Tuchel's tactics. For me, the best player of all time.
Hopefully Spain will win the cup at the weekend.
16 Jul 2026 08:22:37
Messi is going to be some player when he retires and takes up walking football. 😁
16 Jul 2026 08:25:54
I don't see Spain getting suckered into a scrap like England did in that first half, Seeker.
And Spain will just play the same brand of football for the full 90 minutes, which has served them well.
16 Jul 2026 08:29:16
One thing blatantly obvious.
England are really sore losers.
16 Jul 2026 09:13:50
Good post, Mph. 👍 That's why Spain will beat Argentina imo mate. 🤔
16 Jul 2026 09:52:38
I thought Messi was ok, but didn't light the game up. I thought their subs were inspired and changed the game. Otamendi was solid, De Paul put some great balls in, and Gonzales caused problems down the left.
16 Jul 2026 12:37:01
You made one key error in that post
Yes, the score was 1-0 England but they very much were not in control.
16 Jul 2026 13:04:09
They were in total control until Gordon went off around the 70th minute and Tuchel brought on Konsa and moved James to midfield and went 5-4-1, trying to see out the game.
Argentina counteracted with 3 subs, pushed Messi wide, and then controlled the game with England sitting 30 yards from goal and no out ball.
Tuchel then tried to counteract by bringing on additional defensive players and paid the price.
If he had kept the same shape at 1-0, and brought on a Saka for Rogers, giving them an out ball on both sides to hit Argentina on the break as they chased an equaliser.
That's my thoughts anyway, Goram.