
Bronze on the line as France and England clash for World Cup 2026 third place
France and England, both disappointed by their semifinal exits, meet in the World Cup 2026 third-place game to end the tournament on a high note and claim bronze.
All articles tagged with #england national team

France and England, both disappointed by their semifinal exits, meet in the World Cup 2026 third-place game to end the tournament on a high note and claim bronze.

Alan Shearer argues that England’s 2-1 semi-final loss to Argentina shows Tuchel didn’t deliver the final, but his time isn’t up; Tuchel’s contract runs to 2028 and scrutiny will rise ahead of Euro 2028 on home soil. He notes positives like England’s Mexico win, but cautions over balance and forward options as Kane ages, suggesting squad changes for the next campaign.

DR Congo lead England 1-0 at half-time after Cipenga’s early strike; England have created chances but Mpasi’s saves, plus several near-misses from Rashford and Bellingham, keep the DR Congo scoreline intact, and a VAR review of a Kane incident did not award a penalty as England chase an equaliser in the second half.

Jude Bellingham starred for England, scoring via a deft flicked finish off a corner and setting up Harry Kane as England beat Panama 2-0 to seal Group L, underscoring his status as England's World Cup X-factor and leader on big occasions.

The piece argues that Tuchel’s repeated snubs of Trent Alexander-Arnold — including for the World Cup roster — left England without a top-tier right-back option as injuries to Reece James and Jarrel Quansah threaten the team's depth, risking a lack of creativity against disciplined defenses ahead of knockout-stage matches.

England announced its 2026 World Cup squad, but Manchester United defender Harry Maguire was left out, marking a notable omission for the team's plans.

Thomas Tuchel has recalled Ivan Toney to England's World Cup squad as a back-up to Harry Kane, citing Toney's proven finishing and goal threat from both the Premier League and Saudi Pro League (32 goals in 32 league games and 55 in 62 Saudi matches) and his suitability to chase games and be a dangerous presence in the box. Toney, who last played for England almost a year ago and featured at Euro 2024, impressed with his late Euro 2024 substitute appearances and a pivotal penalty in the shootout vs Switzerland; his recall comes after strong feedback from his Al-Ahli coach and underscores Tuchel's gamble to strengthen England's attack for the tournament opener vs Croatia.

Thomas Tuchel has stated he has no issues with Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden, or Jack Grealish despite leaving them out of England's upcoming matches, emphasizing his appreciation for their talent and the decision to maintain squad stability after a recent strong performance.

Gareth Southgate announced his resignation as the manager of the England men's national team following their 2-1 defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final. Southgate, who managed England for eight years and led them to significant international success, including a World Cup semifinal and two consecutive Euro finals, cited the need for change and a new chapter. His tenure is credited with improving the team's performance and atmosphere. The search for a new manager is underway.

Sarina Wiegman, the coach of the England national team, has led her team to the World Cup final, showcasing her genius coaching abilities. Known for her pragmatism and adaptability, Wiegman has guided England to success in the Euro 2022 and now the World Cup 2023 final. Despite her calm and focused demeanor, she has created a safe and supportive environment for her players. Wiegman's ability to handle setbacks and make necessary changes has been evident throughout the tournament, and her coaching expertise has been praised by players and experts alike.