Following England's surprising 3-1 defeat to Senegal in a friendly match at the City Ground, manager Thomas Tuchel has stated there's no need for panic. The loss, which marked Tuchel's first defeat as the Three Lions boss and also England's first-ever loss to an African team, has raised concerns just a year before the World Cup. Despite the setback, Tuchel remains confident in his team's potential and is focused on addressing the issues exposed by the defeat.
England took an early lead in the game with a goal from Harry Kane in the 7th minute, after Anthony Gordon's shot was parried by Edouard Mendy. However, Senegal responded strongly, with Ismaila Sarr equalizing before halftime. Habib Diarra then put Senegal ahead in the 62nd minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse from England. A late goal from Jude Bellingham was disallowed due to a handball in the build-up, and Cheikh Sabaly sealed the victory for Senegal with a goal in stoppage time.
Tuchel acknowledged the disappointing result but emphasized that it was just a friendly match and not a cause for alarm. He pointed out that England has secured nine points from three World Cup qualification games without conceding a goal. He stressed the importance of learning from the defeat and using it as an opportunity to improve the team's performance.
The England boss admitted his side seemed "a bit frozen again and not active enough for a long time in the match" and that they "conceded very easy goals and need to defend better."
Tuchel highlighted the need for improvement in the team's defensive solidity and overall performance. He noted that the team seemed "a bit frozen" and lacked urgency for extended periods during the match. He stressed the importance of defending better and avoiding easy goals.
Despite the loss, Tuchel saw some positives in the team's reaction after going behind. He felt that they became more active, free, and aggressive towards the opponent's goal, creating big chances to equalize. He aims to build on this positive response and instill a more consistent level of intensity and focus throughout the game.
Tuchel is determined to use the remaining time before the World Cup to fine-tune the team and ensure they are fully prepared for the tournament. He believes that the increased competition for places in the squad will drive the players to perform at their best. He is focused on creating a team that is both talented and mentally strong, capable of competing with the world's best.
The England manager said the key message now is not to panic: “Yes, 100 per cent. We lost a test (friendly) match so there is no need to panic. We have (played) three qualification games, we have nine points and not conceded. We will be competitive in September, and we will go for two more victories – 100 per cent we will."