Tuchel's England Defy Criticism, Secure 6-4 World Cup Victory

Thomas Tuchel’s England overcame criticism to secure a 6-4 World Cup victory over France, clinching the best finish England have achieved since winning in 1966. The match, a North America ranking decider in Miami Stadium in the U.S., began at 6 a.m. on June 19 in Korean time, with England starting Kane and Jude Bellingham on the bench. Bukayo Saka powered the opening, scoring twice in the first half, and England led 1-0 before allowing a late second-half surge from France. Despite that, England sealed the result with a Saka penalty and Bellingham’s clinching goal, completing a comeback against France’s 3-4 chase. Tuchel said he worried about physical strain and cramps at high altitude and in hot weather, but added he had no concerns about the team’s mental state. The article notes public jeers after England’s semifinal loss to Argentina and reports that Tuchel is likely to remain, with an eye toward Euro 2028.