Harry Kane has shared that a motivational half-time address from Thomas Tuchel, urging England to “to show the world what we can be” played a pivotal role in their victory during the opening match of the 2026 World Cup.
Despite Kane scoring two goals, equaling Gary Lineker’s record for the most goals scored by an England player in World Cup finals, Croatia managed to equalize twice before the break. However, a revitalized performance in the second half allowed Jude Bellingham to restore England’s lead, followed by Marcus Rashford sealing the win late in the match.
Reflecting on Tuchel’s inspiring message, Kane stated, “He told us to take the shackles off, calm down and let’s go. He said what’s the worst that can happen? Show the world who we can be,” This rallying cry seemed to invigorate the team.
“We came out in the second half full gas and they couldn’t live with it, and that’s the level we have to set in every game. The way we controlled the game once we went ahead, we never really looked like we were in danger and then scored on the counterattack. We had a spell where we could have scored three or four. Credit to everyone: the first game of the tournament and a great result against a tough side.” Kane continued. “It wasn’t one of those where it was a big drama or standing up and shouting; it was what the team needed. We have a mature group with great leaders in there; everyone knew the level we had to get to. The start of the second half gave us a great platform.”
Bellingham added, “He feels discomfort. And I didn’t want to take any risks. So if I take Declan off, which I never wanted to do,”
Concerns arose when Declan Rice was substituted as a precaution during the second half. Tuchel revealed that the Arsenal midfielder had experienced discomfort in his lower back and upper hamstring.
“But it was the moment to protect him. I hope it’s nothing more. Declan just reassured me at the end. ‘It’s good, it’s good.’ I know the discomfort and we will take care of it.” said Tuchel. “Sometimes if you want to get it so perfectly right, you sometimes want it too much and you overthink it,”
The England manager also noted that his players exhibited signs of anxiety despite twice taking the lead, expressing hope that they will benefit from the experience.
“In the end, in doubt, we took the decision to go backwards, on and off the ball. We played way too many [passes] backwards, we played way too many back to our goalkeeper. It took us a while to find our confidence. That’s why I said maybe it’s also normal. I had the hope that the goals would help us. It was not the case.” he explained. “I told them to calm down. We just conceded the goal. To calm down, calm their nerves. And encourage them to do it our way. I told them that my perception of them in the last 17 days will not change no matter what the result is. I want them to do it their way. Our way. I want them to be brave, courageous and tenacious on the front foot. And just go for it.”
Reflecting on his half-time address, Tuchel remarked, “I told them to calm down. We just conceded the goal. To calm down, calm their nerves. And encourage them to do it our way. I told them that my perception of them in the last 17 days will not change no matter what the result is. I want them to do it their way. Our way. I want them to be brave, courageous and tenacious on the front foot. And just go for it.”
