Thomas Tuchel is optimistic that England will improve following their successful top finish in Group L, expressing confidence that his team will “These players are used to these moments – they play Champions League and Europa League to the end,” as they advance to the knockout rounds of the World Cup.
Following a goalless draw against Ghana, England faced difficulties breaking through against Panama and found themselves trailing Croatia in the standings at halftime. However, two goals from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane—who became England’s highest World Cup scorer with a header—secured a 2-0 victory, allowing them to head to Atlanta for a last-32 clash against the Democratic Republic of the Congo on Wednesday.
Tuchel believes that England is capable of delivering a superior performance compared to their outings against Ghana and Panama. He emphasized the significance of fostering confidence within his squad.
“They know what it takes. We will step up. The bigger the games get, the bigger we will get. “There is no problem growing into a tournament like this. We have strong belief and trust in each other. It is important we keep believing in what we can influence and what we can improve. The most important thing is not to be afraid and be brave.” the head coach noted. “It was a classic ankle twist and he is in pain,”
He added, “He said he’s had it before and it was a matter of days. Now he hopes for the same. He has his leg up high and in ice.”
Concerns arose when Jarell Quansah had to leave the field in the second half due to an ankle issue, having stepped in for the injured Reece James. Tuchel commented, “Naturally. Of course we have another injury in the position. It will be a tight race for Reece James and a tight race for Jarell Quansah but it is our job to find solutions and we will do that.”
When asked about the impact of injuries on his squad’s full-back options, Tuchel replied, “We came here to do it in sections and we got through the pre-games well and we achieved the first job: we got through the group and won it,”
Bellingham, who assisted Kane’s goal, is also confident that the team will enhance their performance. “We know what level we are at and what we want to achieve and we did in the second half. Every day we have to try to improve and it’s up to us to do that.” he stated. “Harry is in an amazing state of mind and he is hungry to go all the way in this World Cup,”
Having matched Gary Lineker’s record of 10 World Cup goals during the opening match against Croatia, Kane surpassed that mark despite a subdued first half against persistent opponents.
“We are lucky to have him as captain.” Tuchel remarked. “It’s another proud one to reach,”
Kane has netted 70 goals for both club and country this season, but he continues to seek more. “Let’s hope it’s not the last instalment. It was a solid performance against a tricky side. We would have liked to see out the game a little bit easier but overall it was a good win.” he said. “Let’s hope it’s not the last instalment. It was a solid performance against a tricky side. We would have liked to see out the game a little bit easier but overall it was a good win.”
