Thomas Tuchel has called on his England squad to harness the 'genuine belief' forged in their tumultuous World Cup victory over Congo DR, a match that began in the 'worst possible way' but ultimately kept their tournament aspirations alive.
England found themselves staring down the barrel of an early exit after conceding a goal in just the seventh minute. However, the team displayed remarkable resilience and mental strength to claw their way back, securing a crucial 2-1 win that propels them into the World Cup's round of 16.
This hard-fought triumph marks a significant moment in England's World Cup history, being only the second time the nation has managed to come from behind to win a match in the competition. The victory now sets up a tantalizing next fixture against Mexico, a team known for its tactical discipline and passionate support.
The hero of the hour was undoubtedly Harry Kane, who delivered a match-winning performance with a brace of late goals. His decisive contributions not only secured the vital win but also saw him etch his name further into the record books, surpassing Pele's World Cup goal tally with his 13th career goal in the tournament.
Tuchel lavished praise on Kane's ability to perform under pressure and deliver when the stakes are highest. He highlighted the striker's crucial role in turning the tide of the match and acknowledged the significant impact of players introduced from the bench.
Specifically, Tuchel pointed to the influential contributions of substitutes, including Anthony Gordon, who provided the assists for both of Kane's crucial goals. This demonstrated the depth and quality within the England squad, showcasing the importance of every player's contribution, regardless of their starting status.
The manager emphasized that such dramatic comebacks and the collective effort required to achieve them are vital for building the unwavering belief needed to navigate the later, more challenging stages of a major tournament.
Tuchel concluded by stressing the strong spirit and impressive squad harmony that were evident throughout the match, suggesting that these intangible qualities, combined with individual brilliance and collective resilience, will be key to England's success as they continue their World Cup journey.
