Tuchel's fury: England's ‘lucky’ win fuels doubts ahead of semi-final

Thomas Tuchel lost his composure in an ITV interview with Gabriel Clarke after England's extra‑time World Cup victory over Norway, branding the 2‑1 win ‘lucky’ and criticizing his side despite Jude Bellingham scoring both goals. Andreas Schjelderup gave the Norwegian side the lead just before the break, finding the net on the brink of half‑time. England responded through Jude Bellingham, who cancelled out the Norwegian opener on the brink of half‑time. The German manager Thomas Tuchel later criticised his side despite Bellingham’s brace that sent England into the semi‑finals. In the second half Norway appeared to have reclaimed the lead, but VAR intervened and disallowed the goal. The decision came after Erling Haaland was judged to have fouled Elliot Anderson, nullifying the potential equaliser. The match ultimately required extra‑time, during which England secured victory.

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At full‑time Thomas Tuchel cut an exasperated figure, saying “We made life very, very difficult for ourselves today.” He added “The result is fantastic. We are in the last four. It's amazing but not happy with the performance,” highlighting the team’s sloppy, technical mistakes and lack of speed. Tuchel branded the 2‑1 win “lucky” and warned that England were fortunate to reach the semi‑finals.

Tuchel fumes over England win, claims luck decided it in extra time

When asked about the criticism, Jude Bellingham replied, “Yeah well, whatever. It’s difficult out there, it’s a tough shift. All the players have put in a tough shift.” He also thanked the squad for “a great shift.” England now face a semi‑final against either Argentina or Switzerland in Atlanta on 15 July, with the venue and date confirmed by Reuters.