Tribal Football

Tuchel: England will rise to big game challenges in World Cup knockouts

Marcus Rashford scores for England at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Marcus Rashford scores for England at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.Reuters

England boss Thomas Tuchel has brushed off suggestions of his team struggling to cope with expectations at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Tuchel is aiming to end 60 years of hurt for the Three Lions in North America this summer after being selected to replace Gareth Southgate at the start of 2025 following back-to-back UEFA European Championship final losses under the former defender.

Advertisement
Advertisement

England were faultless in their qualifying campaign, with eight wins from eight and no goals conceded, but they've been inconsistent so far at the tournament itself despite sealing top spot in Group L.

An impressive opening 4-2 win over Croatia was followed up by a 0-0 stalemate against Ghana and a scrappy 2-0 victory over Panama.

Despite questions being raised over his tactics, the experienced German coach is confident the squad is on right on track, ahead of facing DR Congo in the Round of 32 on July 1.

"These players are used to big moments – they play in the Champions League and Europa League right up to the end. They know what it takes. We will step up. The bigger the games get, the bigger we will get.

"There's no problem with growing into a tournament like this. We have strong belief and trust in each other. It's 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."

If England can get past DR Congo in the first knockout game, they will take on either Mexico or Ecuador in the last 16.

Related Articles