World Cup 2026: England v Argentina semi-final – Marc Guehi says pressure is on reigning champions
Tuchel became only the fourth manager to reach a World Cup final with a team from outside his own country, and the first since Austrian Ernst Happel with the Netherlands in 1978.
But the England team will have their work cut out for them against Argentina, who are in the last four of the World Cup for the third time in the last four years.
Asked by BBC Sport’s Sami Mokbel on Wednesday whether the rivalry between the two sides could provide extra motivation, Tuchel said: “We don’t use it as fuel. We know why we are here, we know what we want.”
“We never hesitated to expect this from us, to say this, to dream. We are in the semi-finals, we came very hungry and we want the next victory.”
Political tensions, especially around the Falklands War in the 1980s, shaped relations between the two countries.
After Argentina defeated Egypt 3-2 in the last 16, players were seen singing chants referring to the islands.
However, Tuchel said: “We respect our opponent, but we do not delve into historical events. We do not make a big deal out of it.”
“This is a big football game and a big event. We’re very excited and grateful, but very hungry and ready to go.
“It’s a great rivalry and two great football countries that love football.”
The semi-final will also be the first time England will face Argentina great Lionel Messi on the international stage.
“The way he carries the team is absolutely incredible; there are no words,” Tuchel said when asked about the Argentina captain.
“He is just the leader in this tournament and a key player in every team he plays for.
“When Messi has the ball, the action begins. Messi’s technical performance is at the highest level. There are many things to pay attention to, but we are here to play our way in the semi-finals. We are here to impose our style, our power.
“Many coaches tried” [to stop Messi]. It always seems like there’s another hardware and another solution. He is unique. We know its quality.
“We know how big the obstacle is. We know how big the problem is.”
Tuchel also talked about how he enjoys trying to unwind during a long summer camp.
“Sometimes you just ride your bike and need a big parking space and an ice cream in hand,” he said.
“For 15 minutes, you feel like you’re 15 years old. Not 15, but 50! You spend 15 minutes on a hot summer evening with ice cream and reconnect with the beauty of that feeling that exists within all of us.”
