Declan Rice called this his “best performance” against Costa Rica. This made Thomas Tuchel “very proud”. So are England now ready and ready to win the World Cup?
This 3-0 win over Costa Rica was a huge step up from Saturday’s game against New Zealand and appears to have instilled confidence in the England players and coaching staff. Their substantial support in Orlando was sung loudly and proudly in the stands.
An hour-long delay due to pre-match rain did not dampen the enthusiasm of the traveling England fans. Rather, they seemed energized by what they saw.
With England’s World Cup opener against Croatia just a week away, it was the encouraging final warm-up Tuchel and his co-hopers had hoped for. Eye-catching performances, intensity despite the heat, and most importantly, no injuries.
There are still details to be worked out, including a closed-door friendly against local team Miami FC on Thursday. However, England’s prospects are gathering pace given the team’s apparent trajectory.
Is it time to believe?
Scorer Rice certainly feels like everything is coming together. “We’ve adapted to the heat. It’s not a problem anymore,” he said. ITV. “We’ve been talking all week about how me, Anthony (Gordon) and Nico (O’Reilly) are going to rotate and be flexible. You saw it in the first half. We’re building confidence and fitness going into the first game. It’s really good.”
Anthony Gordon scores England’s second goal against Costa Rica.
Tuchel couldn’t be more satisfied. He told the broadcaster: “I feel very calm and very proud of the team spirit tonight because we are absolutely on the right track.” “The guys that came in had an impact and the guys on the bench pushed. That’s what we wanted.”
Sky Sports News’ Rob Dorsett, watching from the press box in Orlando, described England as “slick, fast and energetic throughout”, adding: “They pressed high and effectively despite the heat and humidity.”
Declan Rice scores England’s first goal against Costa Rica.
More pessimistic observers might argue that given Croatia’s level going forward, a win against a team that failed to qualify for the World Cup is nothing to be happy about.
They might also point out that England’s energy late in the game was supplied by the substitutes when most of the starters were sent off after an hour on a hot and humid Florida day.
So what are England’s chances now that the World Cup starts on Thursday? Are the European Championship runners-up ready to finally take their step towards glory? Or is the pre-tournament optimism misplaced?
Reasons to Believe
Thomas Tuchel – The England manager is one of the most respected coaches in the World Cup. He showed ruthlessness towards star names that were unfamiliar to his predecessors, but at the same time formed a group. England will be hoping his tactical acumen and attention to detail can make a difference.
‘Brotherhood’ – This England squad has none of the cliques of the past. Like Gareth Southgate before him, Tuchel has prioritized bonds between players. This could be key with talented players competing for the same starting role in many areas of the attack.
Harry Kane – Captain Fantastic enters this World Cup on the back of the best scoring season of his career. There are no injuries. Don’t tell me he’s in too deep. Kane is a major Ballon d’Or contender in his lifetime.
reason to be afraid
Heat and fatigue – How often have we seen England’s stars wither in the heat of a hot summer tournament? This may be one of the most brutal incidents in recent memory. England has empowered sports scientists to come up with solutions and discuss adaptations. But England fans will be sweating over this issue. After another strong Premier League campaign, do these players have the energy to give their best when it counts for their country?
If not Kane, then who? – Ollie Watkins will hope his goal against Costa Rica will allay some of the concerns over Kane’s replacement. But let’s face it, the skipper’s fitness and form will likely be decisive throughout this World Cup.
Beating the big boys – England’s record against the best teams will limit the expectations of many. France during the last World Cup. Spain in Euro. England have regularly struggled under Southgate when facing big names. A draw at this World Cup means they may have to beat Brazil, Argentina and Spain in succession to win the title.
What’s next?
The World Cup has officially begun! Mexico vs. South Africa opens the tournament on Thursday, June 11. It starts at 8pm UK time.
uk World Cup campaign begins CroatiaThe first match of Group L begins on Wednesday, June 17th at 9 PM in Arlington, Texas.
