A detailed analysis of England's 3-0 win over Wales. Discover how Thomas Tuchel's strategy shaped the winners and losers of the match, with Saka shining and Bellingham absent. Is this Thomas Tuchel's formula for success?
England showed no mercy in dismantling Wales with a resounding 3-0 friendly win at Wembley on Thursday. The Three Lions, under the guidance of Thomas Tuchel, annihilated Craig Bellamy's team in a frantic opening 20 minutes that sealed the match, despite leaving several key players on the bench.
The night started ideally for England when Morgan Rogers opened the scoring in the first two minutes, capitalizing on a Welsh defensive lapse following a corner. Shortly after, Ollie Watkins extended the lead to 2-0, and Bukayo Saka sealed the result with a spectacular goal from outside the box, making it 3-0 before the 20th minute.
Below, GOAL analyzes the winners and losers after a night in which the strategist's hand Thomas Tuchel made itself felt strongly.
WINNER: Thomas Tuchel
Although it is too early for celebrations, this victory represents a declaration of intent on the part of Thomas Tuchel. The English public has longed for fast, energetic football, and on Thursday the Three Lions were so overwhelming that the game was quickly wrapped up, managing to score three goals in the first 20 minutes for the first time since 1987. The vision of Thomas Tuchel His desire to build a cohesive, club-like squad was reflected in his decision to make only one change from the previous squad. The connections and partnerships on the pitch were evident, revealing a team that was faster, stronger, and smarter than its opponent. Despite the victory, the manager was critical of the stadium atmosphere, a trait of his that the English public is now beginning to recognize.
LOSER: Jude Bellingham
The most surprising absence from the squad was Jude Bellingham. The explanation for this Thomas Tuchel It was forceful and a reflection of his philosophy: “We're not collecting the most talented players, we're trying to build a team. Teams win trophies.” With this statement, Thomas Tuchel He made it clear that he prioritizes the cohesion and "glue" of the group over individual talent, at least at this stage. While the door isn't closed for Bellingham, time is running out ahead of the World Cup, and his situation is a clear example that no one has a guaranteed spot under the new regime.
WINNER: Bukayo Saka
If there's anyone whose place is beyond doubt, it's Bukayo Saka. His stunning goal not only sealed the scoring, but also made him Arsenal's all-time top scorer for the England men's national team. Saka is one of the team's most reliable players and epitomizes the kind of performances that Thomas Tuchel He himself supported the coach's message, stating that a "very healthy and fair competition" is being created where everyone must perform at their best to earn their spot.
WINNER: Morgan Rogers
Despite a low-key season with Aston Villa, Morgan Rogers has proven to be one of the “reliable” players for Thomas Tuchel in the national team. His performance with England suggests he's a player better suited to international football. He opened the scoring with his first international goal, a moment he described as a "dream come true," and his performance positions him as strong domestic competition, even for a position Bellingham could fill.
LOSER: Anthony Gordon
For Anthony Gordon, the match was a missed opportunity. Despite a promising start, where he forced the corner that led to the first goal and created danger, his influence gradually faded. He looked uncomfortable when he was tried as a center forward in the second half, so much so that Thomas Tuchel had to reverse the experiment and return him to the band. With the wealth of talent waiting for an opportunity, Gordon might not have many more chances to secure his spot.
WINNER: Harry Kane
Curiously, Harry Kane is one of the big winners of the night without having played a single minute. His enforced absence due to a minor injury guaranteed him some much-needed rest. Furthermore, the inconsistent performance of his replacement, Ollie Watkins (who scored an easy goal but was also injured), only reinforced the idea that Kane is absolutely irreplaceable. His place in the starting lineup is more secure than ever, counting on the previous confidence of Thomas Tuchel and his exceptional form at Bayern.
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