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FLAWLESS BUT CHALLENGES AWAIT ENGLAND
The Straits Times
|October 16, 2025
Three Lions boss must make tough choices, meet expectations and win over supporters
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England's Harry Kane scoring a goal against Latvia in Riga that was later disallowed. But his brace in the 5-0 drubbing boosted his record to 75 goals in 110 internationals and helped seal their place in the 2026 World Cup. PHOTO: REUTERS
(REUTERS)
Thomas Tuchel has completed his first task as England manager with ease on Oct 14, as the Three Lions became the first European side to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
After a perfect qualifying record of six wins and 18 goals without conceding from six games, the hard work for the German now begins in burdening great expectations in tough conditions in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Here is a look at the challenges ahead for Tuchel and his team if they are to end a 60-year wait to win a major men's tournament.
Tuchel's bold decision to leave out Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden from his squad in October underlined his desire to find the best collective unit rather than a collection of the best players at his disposal.
This story is from the October 16, 2025 edition of The Straits Times.
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