England manager Thomas Tuchel was again caught on pitchside microphones berating right-back Djed Spence during England's 2-1 victory over DR Congo in the World Cup Round of 32. The outburst marked the latest in a series of animated exchanges between the German coach and the Tottenham defender during the tournament.
Tuchel's Frustration Boils Over
With England trailing 1-0 for over an hour, tensions were high on the touchline. Spence, whose position on the right flank places him directly in front of the technical area, bore the brunt of Tuchel's frustration. After Spence took a throw-in but passed backwards, Tuchel screamed: "Djed! There [forward] is one on one! Play up front!"
The incident was not isolated. During England's goalless draw with Ghana earlier in the group stage, Spence was also on the receiving end of Tuchel's criticism. Against Congo, Tuchel's patience eventually ran out: after Spence gave away possession, the manager immediately called for Eberechi Eze, who replaced the full-back with 20 minutes remaining.
Kane Saves England
Despite the tense atmosphere, England secured victory thanks to two goals from captain Harry Kane. The second goal drew particular praise, with Tuchel remarking on the competitiveness among the world's top strikers at this World Cup. "These big guys at this World Cup, do they watch each other? And then they go 'not with me, then I score, then I do a hat-trick, then you go'. What is going on? Crazy," Tuchel said. "Harry is so, so good. He's our captain. He's our leader. He decides football matches with unbelievable finishes and did it here twice. The second one was just a brilliant goal."
Next Up: Mexico
The win sets up a last-16 clash with Mexico, keeping England's World Cup dream alive. Kane's brace keeps him firmly in contention for the Golden Boot as the tournament progresses.
