Patrick Vieira has issued a reality check to England following their 4-2 victory over Croatia, insisting the Three Lions will not win the World Cup. The former Arsenal and France star praised the performance but warned against excessive optimism.
England's impressive start
England roared to a 4-2 win in their World Cup opener in Dallas, with Harry Kane scoring twice in the first half and further goals from Jude Bellingham and substitute Marcus Rashford after the break. Despite defensive concerns under Thomas Tuchel, the attacking display thrilled fans. Kane and Bellingham stood out, and the victory against the toughest group-stage opponent sets England up well for the knockout rounds.
Vieira's cautionary words
World Cup winner Vieira was impressed but urged restraint. Speaking on The Rest is Football, he said: 'It was a really good performance. For the first game of a big tournament, there were many question marks, and England answered them well. But don't build too much excitement. It was a huge performance, one of the best so far, on par with France and Argentina. However, there is still a long way to go.'
When asked about a potential England-France clash, Vieira was dismissive: 'That's a real question? The team to beat is France, no doubt. They are the best team and will win the World Cup. England can hurt France, but not win it.'
Tuchel's half-time adjustments
Tuchel admitted he was unhappy with the first-half display, which ended 2-2, but praised the increased attacking intent and aggression after the break. Vieira highlighted England's high tempo, which overwhelmed an ageing Croatia side. 'It was refreshing to see England with a positive attitude, dictating the tempo. In the second half, Croatia dropped physically, and England dominated. If they improve defensively, they will be a tough team to beat.'
Vieira also stressed Bellingham's importance: 'To win the World Cup, your best player must perform. England won't win if Bellingham is not at his top game.'
Kane on Tuchel's message
Kane revealed Tuchel's half-time instructions: 'The boss said to up the tempo, go man for man, and take the game to them. That's exactly what happened. We showed our best level, with and without the ball, and could have scored three or four in that 20-minute spell in the second half.'
England next face Ghana on Tuesday in Foxborough, Massachusetts, at 9pm UK time.
