Thomas Tuchel compared Harry Kane to a shark and expressed pride in his England side after they mounted a dramatic comeback to defeat the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) 2-1 on Wednesday, securing a place in the World Cup last 16 against Mexico.
Kane's late double rescues England
England were staring at an early exit after Brian Cipenga put the DRC ahead in the seventh minute. However, Kane led the fightback with two late goals, equalising in the 75th minute and scoring the winner with four minutes remaining. This marked the first time England won a World Cup match after conceding first since the 1966 final against West Germany.
Kane now has five goals in four appearances, putting him in contention for the Golden Boot alongside Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Erling Haaland.
Tuchel praises team spirit and substitutes
Tuchel, who made effective substitutions to alter the game's flow, praised his team's refusal to accept defeat. “They’re all sharks,” he said. “If they smell blood, they come and score.” He added: “Things stayed difficult, but this team did not accept a defeat. It makes me very proud because they did what was necessary.”
Anthony Gordon created both goals after replacing Marcus Rashford just after the hour mark. Tuchel also delivered crucial messages during the second hydration break, moving Eberechi Eze to the right and Declan Rice to right-back, which led to Kane's equaliser five minutes later.
Message to the team: 'Keep on knocking'
“The message was always the same: keep on knocking, knocking, knocking. Keep believing. Keep on doing what we do. Don’t give in – you don’t give in. That’s what this team is about,” Tuchel said. He noted that players remained free and not anxious, playing with determination rather than fear.
Tuchel highlighted the improved connection from Eze on the right, helping Bukayo Saka, and Rice's role as a full-back delivering dangerous crosses. “After 60, 70 minutes we come with fresh legs and then you just try to help and support and find solutions from the bench,” he added.
Next challenge: Mexico at high altitude
England's next match is against Mexico at the Azteca Stadium, which sits approximately 2,200 metres above sea level. Tuchel, who fell asleep before Mexico beat Ecuador 2-0 in the last 32, acknowledged the challenge. “It is maybe one of the most beautiful fixtures, most exciting fixtures you can have,” he said. “The altitude will be a big disadvantage because we cannot physically adapt to it in four days. It’s just impossible.”
Despite the obstacles, Tuchel expressed confidence: “More obstacles may come, but we are ready for that. We need it. Maybe we have the ideal platform now to genuinely believe that we are ready for that.” He emphasised the importance of recovery, with an early trip home and a brilliant facility available. “The players are used to that rhythm. They love this rhythm,” he concluded.
