THOMAS TUCHEL’s substitutions came back to haunt him as England crashed to a heart-breaking World Cup semi-final defeat.

England led in the 85th minute before Argentina finally broke their resistance with two late strikes.

The Three Lions were defending for their lives having led through Anthony Gordon’s strike in the 55th minute.

And fans were left questioning the England manager’s substitutions.

One said: “I really like Tuchel but I’m not sure about these subs though.”

While another posted: “This is on Tuchel. Cowardly subs. Inviting this lot on to you only ends one way.

“Southgate would have been slaughtered for doing that.”

And a third wrote: “Tuchel absolutely finished England with those subs.”

While a fourth commented: “Listen Tommy Tuchel has got us this far, but I am constantly baffled by his subs.”

Gordon was then replaced by Ezri Konsa as Tuchel looked to shut up shop.

It was the first defensive substitution which invited pressure onto England’s penalty area.

Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford wad called on a number of times as he made some big saves.

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Two more defenders were brought on in the 82nd minute with Dan Burn and Nico O’Reilly entering the game.

They replaced Declan Rice and Reece James as England looked to see out the closing stages.

But Enzo Fernandez’s 20-yard strike in the 85th minute dragged the reigning world champions level.

England had six defenders on the pitch and couldn’t find a way to shift the momentum.

And the heartbreak was complete when Lautaro Martinez headed home in the 92nd minute to spark wild Argentina celebrations.

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