Thomas Tuchel has expressed confidence that England can only improve after securing top spot in Group L with a 2-0 victory over Panama. The win, sealed by goals from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane, ensures England will face the Democratic Republic of the Congo in the last 32 on Wednesday in Atlanta.
Tuchel's Confidence in the Squad
Tuchel acknowledged that England struggled to break down Panama in the first half, but he believes the team will rise to the occasion in the knockout stages. 'These players are used to these moments – they play Champions League and Europa League to the end. They know what it takes. We will step up. The bigger the games get, the bigger we will get,' Tuchel said. He emphasised the importance of building confidence and staying brave.
Injury Concerns for Quansah and James
There was concern when Jarell Quansah was substituted in the second half after suffering an ankle injury. Tuchel described it as 'a classic ankle twist' and said Quansah is hopeful of recovering quickly. The injury adds to England's depleted full-back options, with Reece James also sidelined. '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,' Tuchel added.
Bellingham and Kane Shine
Jude Bellingham, who assisted Kane's goal, expressed confidence in the team's trajectory. '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,' he told ITV. 'We know what level we are at and what we want to achieve.' Harry Kane's header made him England's all-time leading World Cup scorer with 11 goals, surpassing Gary Lineker. Tuchel praised Kane's mindset: 'Harry is in an amazing state of mind and he is hungry to go all the way in this World Cup. We are lucky to have him as captain.'
Looking Ahead
Kane, who has scored 70 goals for club and country this season, said: 'It's another proud one to reach. Let's hope it's not the last instalment. It was a solid performance against a tricky side.' England will now prepare for their knockout match against DR Congo, with Tuchel urging his team to stay focused and improve.
