Whitecaps' Thomas Muller questions England head coach Tuchel's tactics after World Cup exit

Vancouver Whitecaps midfielder Thomas Muller criticized England's tactics after it surrendered a late 1-0 lead in Wednesday's 2-1 FIFA World Cup semifinal loss to Argentina.

Muller, who played under England coach Thomas Tuchel at Bayern Munich, said England invited pressure by allowing Argentina to repeatedly deliver crosses into dangerous areas instead of trying to control possession.

"Argentina plays a hell of a game, and I cannot believe and understand how England approaches this game, and especially after they're leading," Muller said.

"I cannot understand to invite the whole Argentinean game to hit one cross after the other in perfect crossing positions, but no matter."

England appeared on course for a place in Sunday's World Cup final after Anthony Gordon put it ahead in the 55th minute, but Argentina controlled 88 per cent of possession the rest of the way.

Enzo Fernandez equalized in the 85th minute before substitute Lautaro Martinez headed home Lionel Messi's cross in the second minute of stoppage time.

Messi pivotal again as Argentina rallies to secure World Cup final berth

Tuchel shifted into a defensive posture late in the match, introducing defenders Dan Burn and Nico O'Reilly to protect the lead as Argentina piled on the pressure.

"They won every header. They kept crossing and crossing. So, we went to a back five to close the gaps inside and be stronger in the air," Tuchel said.

"Straight after our goal, with no substitutions, we just conceded way too many crosses and way too many chances. So, we tried to help. But, of course, the responsibility is on the coach. And, if it doesn't go well, it's easy to say that it was wrong."

Argentina advanced to Sunday's 3 p.m. ET World Cup final against Spain in