Jude Bellingham poked the ball home from Bukayo Saka’s corner to put England ahead against Panama, ending three goalless halves of World Cup football. The 22-year-old Real Madrid midfielder then set up Harry Kane as England won 2-0 at the New York/New Jersey Stadium on Saturday night, securing top spot in Group L.
Moments after the final whistle, Thomas Tuchel’s nationality was thrust into the spotlight. The England manager, a German who led Chelsea to Champions League glory in 2021, was asked about his loyalties in his post-match press conference.
“Bellingham scores and assists as England beat Panama 2-0 to top Group L; Tuchel says his heart beats for England.”
“I follow the German team, of course, but my focus and my heart beats for the England national team in this World Cup, so that’s where my focus is,” Tuchel said. “They have a top coach and a top team. They find solutions for themselves.”
Germany had already qualified for the last-32 with wins over Curacao and Ivory Coast, though they fell to Ecuador in their final group game. Tuchel, 52, played down any controversy over his appointment. “The biggest con is I don’t have an English passport but that’s maybe it,” he said. “That was clear from the beginning, I love to be the England coach and I was never shy about that. I have huge affection for the country and for the people in the country and the way they approach football and sports in general.”
Taking the England job, Tuchel said reuniting with Premier League players was a major draw. “I fell in love with the country and the Premier League,” he explained. “Now to have the chance to work with these kind of players is an amazing opportunity and I am very grateful for it. No one wants it more than me.”
Assessing his side’s performance, Tuchel noted Panama’s stubborn defence, likening it to Ghana’s low block. “Not bad,” he said. “We saw a team who didn’t allow any chances in the first two matches. They conceded a 95th-minute counter attack against Ghana. They conceded from a half chance against Croatia with two shots on target. There is no problem if these matches feel tight and tough, it will help us in the next match.”
England’s place in the knockout stages is secure. For Tuchel, the focus is clear.