Thomas Tuchel has predicted England “will step up” as the World Cup progresses after the Three Lions beat Panama 2-0 to finish top of Group L. Speaking to ITV after the match, Tuchel acknowledged the team's struggles in the first half but expressed confidence in their ability to improve in the knockout stages.
England secure top spot with second-half goals
England had already qualified for the knockout stages before Saturday night's clash in Atlanta, but a victory ensured they topped the group. Jude Bellingham broke the deadlock just after the hour mark, poking home Bukayo Saka’s corner from close range. Five minutes later, Bellingham turned provider, delivering a cross that Harry Kane headed home to make it 2-0. The goal made Kane England’s highest scorer at a single World Cup, with 11 goals, surpassing Gary Lineker's record.
Despite the win, England faced criticism for a lackluster first-half performance, struggling to break down a resolute Panama defense. Tuchel, however, focused on the positives. “We did what we needed. It was as we expected against a difficult opponent. We were the only team to create this amount of chances against Panama,” he said. “Everyone did what we needed to do and Jude was a big part of that.”
Tuchel: 'The tournament starts again now'
The German coach stressed that the team would build on their group-stage performances as they enter the knockout rounds. “There's more to build on and you have to get so many details right with the aggressive approach we take,” Tuchel added. “But the tournament starts again now with the knockouts. We collect our strengths and our energy and we build on what we have. We will step up. The bigger the games, the better we'll get.”
Tuchel’s comments come as England prepare for the round of 32, where they will face one of the best third-placed teams. Currently, the most likely opponent is Senegal, with DR Congo and Algeria also in contention. The match is scheduled for July 1 in Atlanta.
Bellingham shines in deeper role
Jude Bellingham, playing in a deeper midfield role, was instrumental in the victory. The Real Madrid star not only scored the opener but also provided the assist for Kane’s record-breaking goal. His performance drew praise from Tuchel, who highlighted his influence on the game. “Jude was a big part of what we did tonight,” Tuchel said. “He showed his quality in both boxes and in midfield.”
England’s progression as group winners sets up a potentially favorable path in the knockout stages, but Tuchel remains focused on the immediate challenge. “We take it one game at a time,” he said. “The next opponent will be tough, but we have the quality to go far.”
