England starts closing gap with world giants

Thomas Tuchel believes England's dramatic victory over France in the 2026 World Cup third-place playoff signals that the Three Lions are now capable of challenging the world's top footballing nations. The high-scoring match, which saw 10 goals, concluded with England defeating France 6-4, with Bukayo Saka scoring a hat-trick to secure a podium finish for the squad managed by Tuchel.

This win comes just days after England's semi-final loss to Argentina, a defeat that still weighed on Tuchel and his players. Prior to the match against France, the German manager had openly acknowledged that England still had ground to cover to stand alongside dominant forces like Argentina, Spain, and France. However, the victory against Les Bleus has instilled new confidence in the former Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager that England is on the right path.

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We have the ability to close that gap, but they also have the ability to widen it again. Eight years ago, they were world champions. Four years ago, they played in the final. There is still a small gap, but it's no problem. We want to close it.

"We have the ability to close that gap, but they also have the ability to widen it again. Eight years ago, they were world champions. Four years ago, they played in the final. There is still a small gap, but it's no problem. We want to close it," Tuchel stated. He emphasized that defeating a team with France's strong World Cup pedigree proves England is nearing the standard required to compete for major titles.

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I said yesterday, today (yesterday) is the first step to closing that gap. We managed to do it. We beat them. The next challenge is against Spain in the UEFA Nations League.

In the thrilling encounter, Saka was the standout performer with his hat-trick, solidifying his status as one of England's most influential players. Kylian Mbappe also made history by scoring twice, becoming the all-time leading scorer in World Cup history. Tuchel praised his players' fighting spirit, highlighting their resilience in bouncing back from the disappointment of the Argentina loss to display character and bravery against France.

Despite failing to end England's World Cup drought since 1966, achieving third place offers a positive sign of a new era under Tuchel, heading towards greater success. The journey continues with a challenge against Spain in the UEFA Nations League.

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Seeing the team fight like this gives you energy. Fatigue will be felt afterwards. We will still feel the disappointment when the final takes place tomorrow. It will take some time to forget it, but overall it gives me more energy.