Thomas Tuchel has praised the impact of England’s substitutes after the Three Lions edged past DR Congo in the 2026 World Cup’s Round of 32.
England recovered from conceding an early goal to beat DR Congo 2-1 and book a last-16 tie against co-hosts Mexico.
Harry Kane scored twice for the Three Lions, with each of the captain’s goals assisted by Anthony Gordon.
The latter had been introduced from the bench, before crossing for Kane to head home an equaliser. That goal had come after England had been frustrated throughout, forcing DR Congo ‘keeper Lionel Mpasi Nzau into several saves without scoring.
Gordon’s pass then found Kane for his 86th-minute winner and Tuchel said the attitude of the whole squad has helped England’s tournament to date.
“Like I said the whole tournament, the energy and team spirit is at the highest level. Everyone understands which part of the tournament we are in at the moment.
“The players who don’t play keep pushing and pushing, they are positive in the water breaks. Everyone is comfortable when they play, everyone is comfortable when they finish the game.
“We want it easy and have the first goal. If you have it and come back from one goal down, these are the experiences that give you genuine belief. They are well aware of what they did and what it took today.”
