Beijing time (CEST) on 28 June, in the third round of FIFA World Cup group stage qualifying, Panama lost 0-2 to England. After the match, England manager Tuchel attended a press conference.

How do you assess your team's performance today?

Tuchel: We played a difficult match. Everyone watching from the sideline could see the physical intensity of the game. We were up against a team that had conceded no clear chances in their first two matches. They lost to a counter-attack in extra time against Ghana and conceded only one 50-50 chance against Croatia, with their opponents only managing two shots on target. We scored two goals today, created several clear-cut chances, and created more opportunities in the second half. We knew this match would be very physical, we knew it would be difficult to control their counter-attacks, and we knew they would play defensively. As a coach, I know what it takes to win matches like this. If these matches are tense and difficult, that's fine—it will help us in the next game. That's where my focus is now.

Major tournament results often depend on key players and figures. Bellingham and Kane both played crucial roles today. What's your assessment of their performance and impact?

Tuchel: Very significant impact, of course, especially in the second half. A very significant impact. This is what we need, this is what we want, and this is why we selected them. They make us more dangerous, they make us a top team, and that's why our expectations are high. Yes, that's it.

What are your impressions of the pitch today?

Tuchel: The pitch is very fast, the grass is very short, almost like artificial turf. Because the grass hasn't grown evenly and hasn't been completely leveled, you can see different levels of grass structure. As a result, the pace of play is much faster, and the overall feel is more "bouncy," with the ball moving and bouncing very actively and more unpredictably.

The pitch is certainly playable, no problem there, but it's very different from what we used in Boston. There, the grass is longer, the pitch is softer, and the pace of play is slower. Here, it's harder and faster, making the overall rhythm of play more direct and quick, but still completely playable, and nobody is complaining about it.

What's the situation with Quansah's injury? And are you concerned about the right-back position?

Tuchel: An ankle sprain, a typical ankle sprain. He was in significant pain, and he said it's happened before and took a few days to recover, so hopefully it will be the same this time. But right now it's too painful, so he's elevating his leg, applying ice, and wrapping it. Of course, I'm concerned about this position. We have other injuries, so naturally I'm concerned. But this is our job, and we'll find a solution within four days.

Did it feel like a home match for you here?

Tuchel: Yes, it felt amazing. The support was incredible, a sea of white behind the goal. The weather was also perfect for the match—warm rain. The connection between the fans and players in the closing stages of the match was very beautiful, a very special moment. I encourage everyone to soak in this moment because it's easy to get caught up in expectations—you feel you must win the group, you must win every match, but that's not reality. This is hard work, it requires respect for the opposition and the nature of the game. Tonight was about feeling the energy and atmosphere. Starting tomorrow, we'll prepare for the Round of 16.

Did you adjust Bellingham's position on the pitch today?

Tuchel: He played as a number 10 when we had possession. We had six players in the back line because the opposition played with a five-back system. Without the ball, he played as a midfielder against their two midfielders in a man-to-man marking structure. That's it.

How do you explain the difference in performance between the first match and the next two matches?

Tuchel: That's football—it depends on the opponent. The first match was more open, more technical, more possession-based. The next two matches, the opposition was very physical, played defensively deep, played on the counter-attack, and used many players to block the wings. So attacking these teams requires a lot of effort. This is good for us, it teaches us discipline, belief, and to keep trying. I know it's not as beautiful, but I know what the team is delivering. We found a way to win, which is the most important thing.

Do you feel Bellingham is in the condition you want him in? Are you managing his minutes through rotation?

Tuchel: You should ask Bellingham himself. He's in good condition after recovering from injury, he enjoys playing freely and can deliver high-intensity performances. That's also why we're controlling his minutes now, around 60 to 70 minutes, because he hasn't been able to maintain this intensity for several months. He's a key player and needs this intensity. He loves the big stage. We'll support him, and at the same time encourage other players to compete for his position.

How was Anderson's performance? Is he affected by transfer rumors and speculation about his personal future?

Tuchel: I think there's a good chance his situation will be resolved before the Round of 16. His performance has been very impressive, he's training well and playing well. He's very young, but it feels like he's been here a long time. He's gotten better since the match against Croatia. There are no injury issues; the medical staff confirmed he's able to play.

Regarding whether his future needs to be decided before the Round of 16

Tuchel: Perhaps, but we need to focus on the next match. If we start thinking about the Round of 16, we'll be punished. We have a difficult match in four days, not in Mexico, but in Atlanta. We need to focus there.

Kane has broken the record for goals scored by an English player at the FIFA World Cup. What's your take on that? What did you say to him?

Tuchel: Everyone is delighted for Kane, he's a tremendous teammate, very special, and everyone respects him. I didn't even know about the record until you told me. It's fantastic that he broke it on such a big stage as the FIFA World Cup. He's in excellent physical and mental condition now, and he wants to go far. He's not content, which shows his character. That's why we're so happy to have him as captain.

Will you offer any advice to the German team?

Tuchel: If they don't need advice, then of course I won't offer any. Naturally, I'm following the FIFA World Cup and the German team, but my heart and attention are with the England team. No advice—they have a top coach and a top team; they'll sort out their problems themselves.

Do you think this team is better suited for knockout matches?

Tuchel: I think so. But the first match itself was like a knockout match. Today felt like it too because of the points situation. The players are used to these moments; they've played in the Champions League and Europa League through to the final stages. They know what it takes. We'll improve; that's not in question. The key is to keep believing, focus on what we can control, step by step. We're ready.

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