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Declan Rice called it a “top performance” against Costa Rica. It left Thomas Tuchel “very proud”. So are England now ready and willing to go on and win the World Cup?
The 3-0 win over Costa Rica was a significant step up from Saturday’s victory over New Zealand and seemed to breathe a sigh of confidence into England’s players and coaching staff. Their considerable support in Orlando was also singing loud and proud in the stands.
A pre-match storm did not dampen the spirits of England fans who traveled an hour late. Instead, they seemed encouraged by what they saw.
A week out from England’s World Cup opener with Croatia, it was encouraging final preparations for Tuchel and co. Eye-popping performance, intensity despite the heat and importantly, no injuries.
There is still fine-tuning to be done, including a behind-closed-doors friendly with local side Miami FC on Thursday. But England’s chances are gathering pace given the team’s apparent trajectory.
Is it time to believe?
Goal-scorer Rice certainly feels it’s all coming together. “We’ve adapted to the heat, it’s not a problem now,” he said ITV. “We’ve talked all week about how me, Anthony (Gordon) and Nico (O’Reilly) are going to rotate and be fluid – you saw in the first half. We’re building confidence and fitness in that first game. It’s really good.”
Anthony Gordon scored England’s second goal against Costa Rica
Tuchel couldn’t have been more pleased. “Tonight puts my mind at ease because we’re absolutely going in the right direction and I’m very proud of the team’s attitude,” he told the broadcaster. “The guys who came in were dominant and the guys on the bench were pressing. That’s exactly what we wanted.”
Sky Sports News’ Rob Dorsett, watching from the press box in Orlando, described England as “agile, smooth, energetic”, adding: “Despite the heat and humidity they pressed high and effectively.”
Declan Rice scored England’s first goal against Costa Rica
More pessimistic observers might argue that a win against a team that failed to qualify for the World Cup is nothing to get too excited about given Croatia’s quality.
They could also point to England’s energy late in the game being supplied by substitutes when most of the starters were removed after an hour on a hot, humid day in Florida.
So when the World Cup starts on Thursday, what are the chances of England? Are the European Championship runners-up set for glory at last? Or is this pre-tournament optimism wrong?
reason to believe
Thomas Tuchel – The England boss is one of the most respected coaches at the World Cup. He has shown ruthlessness with star names that were alien to his predecessors, yet at the same time created a unified team. England will hope his tactical nous and attention to detail make the difference.
‘Brotherhood’ – There is no past cycle in this England team. Tuchel – like Gareth Southgate before him – prioritized bonding between his players. This could be important with talented players competing for the same starting role in many offensive areas.
Harry Kane – Captain Fantastic is going into this World Cup on the back of a career best scoring season. There are no injuries. No discussion of him dropping too deep, please. Kane is a leading contender for the Ballon d’Or in his lifetime.
cause of fear
Heat and Fatigue- How many times have we seen England stars die in the heat of a hot summer tournament? It may be one of the most brutal in recent times. England talked sports scientists into coming up with a solution and adapting them. However, England fans will sweat over the issue. After another torrid Premier League campaign, do these players have the energy to give their best when it matters for their country?
Why not who? – Ollie Watkins will be hoping his late goal against Costa Rica will allay some fears about Kane’s replacement. But let’s see, the captain’s fitness and form could be decisive through this World Cup.
Beating the big boys – England’s track record against the best teams will limit England’s expectations for many. France in the last World Cup. Spain in the Euro. When England make a big name, they regularly struggle under Southgate. They need to beat Brazil, Argentina and Spain if they draw in this World Cup.
What next?
World Cup officially started! Mexico v South Africa Thursday 11 June tournament opener; Kick-off is 8pm UK time.
England Started the World Cup campaign against CroatiaTheir first Group L clash will begin on Wednesday June 17 in Arlington, Texas at 9pm.
