Owen: England’s Mexico Win Created Blueprint for Semi-Final Defeat

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Former England striker Michael Owen argues that the Three Lions’ celebrated win over Mexico set the wrong tone for their World Cup run. He believes the defensive tactics lauded at the Azteca Stadium convinced everyone that sitting back was the path to victory. Owen says this approach backfired in the semi-final against Argentina. Dropping deep after taking the lead invited pressure, and late goals sealed England’s 2-1 defeat. He warns that true leadership of a match comes from keeping possession, pushing for a second goal and maintaining attacking intent rather than retreating into defence.

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