Lamine Yamal gave Spain an early lead, but England responded through Anthony Gordon and Harry Kane to take a 2-1 advantage into half-time. Álex Baena levelled after the break before Mikel Oyarzabal completed Spain's comeback.
Tuchel was critical of England's start but felt his team grew into the game and controlled long spells.
“Terrible start, the worst start possible.
“It makes it so, so difficult to be behind against this type of team. After 10-12 minutes, I think we were the better team. We dominated in the opponent's half.
“We created and scored two goals, our best 15 minutes after the whistle. We couldn't convert the penalty - I think then maybe Spain would have believed that their long run of unbeaten games ends here.
“Another big, big mistake for 2-2. The third goal, was the only goal they really scored. Just is what it is. We have to keep going and learn from it. Take what is positive and take the points back to the Czech Republic.”
Harry Kane had the opportunity to extend England's lead from the penalty spot but struck the crossbar before Spain turned the match around.
Tuchel rejected the suggestion Gordon's goal represented the style England should embody, pointing instead to the team's ability to win the ball and attack quickly.
“No, the Anthony Gordon goal was a counter-attack.
“The top transition goal we scored, we scored amazing goals and could have created more if we were a bit more clinical in the last 20 metres.
“We had an incredible amount of ball wins. We couldn't convert enough into chances and goals, otherwise we would have won the match.”
The England manager was satisfied with Gordon's individual contribution but said his performance, like the team's, contained good and bad moments.
“Good performance. With ups and downs. Like the team, it is a team sport.”
Tuchel accepted England would have to learn from the defeat.
“Always, but there will always be moments when you suffer like this. It matters that you take your chances. Spells of the game were very good, but the result doesn't prove it today.”