Thomas Tuchel Starts England Tenure With 2-0 Win Over Albania

The German coach's debut highlighted a controlled performance but underscored the need for improvement to meet his ambitious goals for the team.

Thomas Tuchel made his debut as England's national football team coach with a 2-0 victory over Albania in a World Cup qualifier at Wembley Stadium.
Goals from 18-year-old debutant Myles Lewis-Skelly and captain Harry Kane secured the win, though the team's performance was described as unspectacular by media and Tuchel himself.
Tuchel emphasized his vision of fostering a playing style built on hunger and joy rather than fear, a shift from his critique of Gareth Southgate's tenure.
Fans welcomed Tuchel warmly with a banner reading 'Welcome to the home of football, Thomas,' while British media provided mixed reactions, praising the win but noting the lack of excitement.
Tuchel acknowledged significant room for improvement, stressing the importance of building rhythm and understanding among the players as he aims to prepare the team for the 2026 World Cup.