England midfielder Jude Bellingham cut a frustrated figure after his side's dramatic 2-1 defeat to Argentina in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final on Wednesday, with the Real Madrid star involved in a heated exchange moments after the final whistle.
Bellingham, who had been among England's standout performers throughout the tournament, was unable to influence the contest against Argentina as Lionel Messi inspired the defending champions' late comeback by setting up goals for Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez within a seven-minute spell.
A video widely shared on social media showed Bellingham appearing to slap Argentina defender Valentin Barco on the head during the South American side's celebrations following the match.
The incident unfolded immediately after the referee signalled full time. Bellingham was standing alone on the pitch processing the defeat when he was initially comforted by an Argentine player. As Barco joined his teammates in celebrating, he appeared to make a remark in Bellingham's direction.
The England midfielder, who has scored six goals during this World Cup, reacted by striking Barco on the head. The Argentine responded with a shove before players from both teams stepped in to separate the pair and prevent the confrontation from escalating.
Reflecting on England's semi-final exit, Bellingham expressed his disappointment over missing out on a place in the final after his side surrendered a second-half lead.
“It's a very sad day for us. We played well, we fought until the end, but it wasn't enough," the Real Madrid midfielder told the media after the game.
England manager Thomas Tuchel also came under heavy criticism on social media for adopting a defensive approach after Anthony Gordon had put his team ahead, a tactical switch that preceded Argentina's late comeback.
Responding to the criticism, Tuchel defended his decisions and argued that the scrutiny was a consequence of the result.
"I did also offensive substitutions in the last games, we just tried to help the players," he said. "We conceded a chance straight away and we decided to go to a back five because the gaps were far too open. Straight after our goal, without any substitutions, we conceded way too many crosses and way too many chances so we tried to help. Of course, the responsibility is on the coach and if it doesn't go well, it is easy to say it was wrong."
England's World Cup campaign is not yet over, with Tuchel's side set to face France in the third-place playoff on Saturday.
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