At Villa Park on 6/9, the home team dominated possession with 83%, but struggled to break down the disciplined defense of the 174th-ranked team in the world. They finally opened the scoring in the 25th minute thanks to an own goal from defender Christian Garcia, following Noni Madueke's cross.
In the second half, Tuchel repeatedly urged his players to increase the tempo. However, England still lacked creativity and only managed to add another goal through a header from Declan Rice.
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Christian Garcia's own goal gave England the lead in their 2-0 win over Andorra in Group K of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers - European zone at Villa Park, England on 6/9. Photo: Reuters |
Christian Garcia's own goal gave England the lead in their 2-0 win over Andorra in Group K of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers - European zone at Villa Park, England on 6/9. Photo: Reuters
The 2-0 result helped England maintain their perfect record through four Group K matches. However, Tuchel was not satisfied, specifically naming three players who were not at their best: Eberechi Eze, Noni Madueke, and Marcus Rashford.
"Eze didn't have a good game in the number 10 position, Madueke's final passes weren't sharp enough, and Rashford missed opportunities," the German coach said. "This can happen against a defensive opponent, but the second goal should have come earlier to relieve the pressure."
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Coach Thomas Tuchel gives directions during the match. Photo: Reuters |
Coach Thomas Tuchel gives directions during the match. Photo: Reuters
Tuchel admitted that England played effectively, but lacked conviction, cunning, and intelligence in the opponent's half. The 52-year-old coach also suggested that the atmosphere in the stands contributed to the subdued performance.
"The crowd here is very different from the Premier League," Tuchel expressed. "After the opening goal, we had 10 to 15 minutes of lost focus, giving away possession and losing concentration. In the second half, the team regained their rhythm but should have scored more goals."
The match also marked a milestone for Harry Kane as he equaled the record of 108 appearances for England, held by legend Bobby Moore. However, the Bayern Munich striker missed at least two clear chances, including a shot blocked right in front of goal.
The victory over Andorra solidified England's position before they travel to face Serbia - the toughest opponent in the group - on 9/9. Tuchel warned: "We understand the challenge ahead. This is a crucial match, because if we win, England will be closer to a World Cup ticket."
Hong Duy summarized
