England, under Tuchel, has been characterized by high speed, fitness, and intense pressing, leveraging its Premier League player base to overwhelm opponents. However, before the round of 16 match in Mexico City, the German coach shifted his stance, delivering a message: "England needs to slow down, be more composed, and exercise better control instead of just rushing into relentless attacks".

Tuchel admitted that while England maintains a pressing mentality, its execution has been inefficient. Players often rush forward too early, lacking synchronization, which stretches the team's formation and leads to a loss of control. He believes his players need to choose the right moment, maintain proper distance, and avoid disorganization when pressing.

Harry Kane (left) celebrates the equalizer with Jude Bellingham in England's 2-1 come-from-behind victory against DR Congo in the World Cup round of 16 at Atlanta stadium on 1/7. Photo: AP

Similar issues appear in attack. England tends to progress the ball too directly, relying on quickly moving it wide for crosses into the box, but lacks alternative plans when opponents close down space. Tuchel stressed that ball control is not just for attacking, but also helps reduce the energy burden on the entire team, preventing rapid stamina depletion without commensurate effect.

"Sometimes the door is closed, but we still try to run into it. Instead, we need to change direction and keep possession to find other solutions", Tuchel emphasized, adding that ball control also helps the team conserve stamina in harsh conditions.

Despite this, he affirmed he is not abandoning his philosophy of speed, but is seeking a balance between power and tactical control. Some personnel changes are also being considered, as John Stones, who is suited to a possession-based style, has not been used regularly, while the duo of Ezri Konsa and Marc Guehi remain preferred choices.

Journalists report on England's training session in Mexico City, Mexico on 4/7/2026. Photo: AP

Today's match at Azteca stadium presents a major challenge, not only professionally but also physically. At an altitude of 2,240 meters above sea level, visiting teams often struggle in the early stages of the match.

Tuchel admitted he also felt the effects of the altitude: "We feel it even when not training. I have a mild headache and am not sleeping as well as usual, but nothing too serious".

The 52-year-old coach stated that players also adapt more quickly after starting training, but emphasized that early preparation is crucial. He expressed optimism, believing England is ready for a symbolic match: "We are not here to avenge the past. We are here to write our own chapters. The entire team has a good spirit".

England has memorable memories in Mexico, including the 1986 loss to Argentina – a match associated with the "hand of god" goal by late legend Diego Maradona. However, Tuchel asserted that the current team is not haunted by history.

Coach Thomas Tuchel during a pre-match training session. Photo: AP

During preparation, England also faced some unusual factors. A change in match time was considered at the last minute due to weather concerns, before eventually being cancelled. Tuchel stated that the incident did not affect the players as the team was mostly traveling.

Regarding the squad, Reece James's fitness to return is uncertain, while Jarell Quansah has trained normally and could play at right-back.

Mexico is expected to start with high intensity, utilizing its home advantage and climatic conditions, as over 17,000 police have been deployed to ensure security for the matchday.

The clash at Azteca is therefore not only a tactical test but also a test of character. For Tuchel, the key lies in adaptability: knowing when to speed up and when to slow down. "We will have the answer. That is the most important thing", he affirmed.

Compiled by Hong Duy