On June 28, 2024, according to Beijing time (CEST), in the FIFA World Cup group stage match day 3, Panama 0-2 England, Thomas Tuchel, head coach of the England national team, held a press conference following the match.

How do you assess your team's performance today?

Thomas Tuchel: We played a difficult match. Everyone watching closely from the sideline saw the physical intensity of the game. We faced a team that didn't give opponents chances in their first two matches. They lost to a counter-attack during injury time against Ghana and conceded only one 50-50 opportunity to Croatia. Our opponents had only two shots on goal. We scored two goals today, created some 50-50 chances, and created more opportunities toward the end of the match. We knew this game would demand physicality. We knew controlling counter-attacks would be difficult. We knew they would play from a disadvantage. We understood all of this. As a coach, I know what it takes to win games like this. If these matches are tight and challenging, that's fine. It will help us in matches to come. That's what I'm thinking right now.

In major tournaments, results often depend on key players and standout performers. Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane both had roles today. What do you think of their performance and impact?

Thomas Tuchel: Their impact was significant, especially in the second half. Very significant. This is what we wanted. This is what we desired. And this is why we selected them. They made us more dangerous, made us a leading team, and because of that, our expectations are high. Yes, exactly.

What are your thoughts on the pitch conditions today?

Thomas Tuchel: It's a very fast pitch. Short grass, almost feels like artificial turf. The grass hasn't grown evenly and hasn't been leveled properly. You can see varying grass surface structures. Because of this, the game's rhythm is noticeably faster, and the overall feeling is more "bouncy"—the ball runs and bounces faster and more unpredictably.

The pitch is definitely playable. No problems with that. But it's completely different from the pitch we used in Boston. There the grass is longer and the pitch is softer, slowing the game down. In contrast, here it's harder and faster, making the overall game rhythm more direct and quick. But it's still perfectly playable, and no one is complaining about it.

How is Jarrell Quansah's injury situation? Are you concerned about the right-back position?

Thomas Tuchel: An ankle strain—a typical ankle strain. He's in considerable pain, and he said it happened before and took a few days to recover. I hope it's the same this time, but it's too painful right now, so he's elevating it, icing it, and compressing it. Of course, I'm concerned about this position. We have another player injured, so naturally I'm worried. But this is our job, and we'll find a solution within four days.

Does the atmosphere here feel like a home game for you?

Thomas Tuchel: Yes, it feels excellent. The support is incredible. There's a sea of white behind the goal. The weather is perfect for the match. Warm rain. The connection between the fans and players in the final stages of the match was wonderful. It's a special moment. I encourage everyone to embrace 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. It's hard work that requires respect for opponents and the nature of the game. Tonight is about touching that energy and atmosphere. Starting tomorrow, we prepare for the round of 32.

Did Jude Bellingham's position on the pitch change today?

Thomas Tuchel: He played as an attacking midfielder, number 10. When he had the ball, we had six players in the final attacking phase because our opponents played with a five-man defense. When we didn't have the ball, he was a midfielder pressing against their two midfielders in a direct one-on-one battle. That's what happened.

How would you explain the difference in your team's performance between the first match and the subsequent two matches?

Thomas Tuchel: That's football. It depends on the opponent. The first match was more open, more technical, more possession-oriented. The next two opponents are very physical, playing a deep defensive game, counter-attacking, and using many players to close down the wings. Therefore, it requires enormous effort to break down these teams. This is good for us. It teaches us discipline, confidence, and to keep pushing. I know it may not be as beautiful, but I know what effort the team put in. We found a way to win, and that's what matters most.

Do you feel Jude Bellingham is in the condition you want to see him in right now? Have you kept him fresh through player rotation?

Thomas Tuchel: You'd have to ask Jude Bellingham himself. He's in good condition after recovering from injury. He's happy to play freely and can demonstrate high-intensity performances. That's why we're managing his playing time right now—around 60 to 70 minutes—because he hasn't been able to maintain that intensity over the past several months. He's a key player and needs that intensity. He loves the big stage. We'll support him, and at the same time, we're pushing other players to compete for his spot.

How has Elliott Anderson performed? Has he been affected by transfer rumors and concerns about his personal future?

Thomas Tuchel: I think there's a good chance his situation will be resolved before the round of 32. His performance has been impressive. He trains well and plays well. He's very young, but it's as if he's been here for a long time. He's been developing steadily since the match against Croatia. No injury concerns. The medical team confirms he can play.

Regarding the possibility of his future being clarified before the round of 32

Thomas Tuchel: That's possible, but we need to focus on the next match. If we start thinking ahead to the round of 16, we'll be punished. We have a difficult match in four days ahead. Not in Mexico, but in Atlanta. We need to focus on that.

Harry Kane broke England's World Cup goalscoring record. What are your thoughts? What did you say to him?

Thomas Tuchel: Everyone is delighted for Harry Kane. He's an excellent teammate, very special. Everyone respects him. I didn't even know about these records—you're the one telling me. It's wonderful that he broke the record on the big stage of the World Cup. He's in excellent physical and mental condition right now, and he's eager to go all the way. He's not easily satisfied, which reflects his character. That's why we're so happy to have him as our captain.

Would you give any advice to the German national team?

Thomas Tuchel: If they don't want advice, of course I won't offer any. I certainly follow the World Cup and the German national team, but my heart and focus are with the England national team. No advice. They have their coach and leadership. They'll solve their own problems.

Do you think this team is better suited for the knockout stage?

Thomas Tuchel: I think so. But even the first match felt like a knockout match. Today felt that way too because of the fluctuating scores. The players are familiar with these moments. They've played in the Champions League and Europa League through to the finals. They know what's necessary. We'll improve. No doubt about it. What matters is maintaining belief, focusing on what we can control, and taking it one step at a time. We're ready.

แปลโดย AI

เว็บไซต์ AF เปิดตัวแล้ว! ดูข่าว ความคิดเห็น รายละเอียดแมตช์ และสถิติครบถ้วนบนคอมพิวเตอร์ของคุณ เยี่ยมชม: www.allfootballapp.com