London, July 16 -- Former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen criticised England's approach in their FIFA World Cup semifinal defeat to Argentina, saying the Three Lions allowed the defending champions to take control after going ahead.

England took the lead through Anthony Gordon in the 55th minute but failed to hold on as Argentina staged a late comeback, with Enzo Fernandez equalising in the 85th minute before Lautaro Martinez headed home the winner in stoppage time to seal a 2-1 victory.

Reacting to the result in a post on X, Pietersen said England performed well until taking the lead but then surrendered the initiative to Argentina.

"One of the biggest mistakes you can make in sport is letting a bully, bully you. And you could see i...