2026 World Cup: Tuchel’s Half‑Time Message to England Players After Croatia’s Win

England manager Thomas Tuchel explained what he said to his squad during the half‑time break of their 4‑2 victory over Croatia in the opening match of the 2026 World Cup.

The Three Lions entered the interval tied 2‑2. Harry Kane’s penalty had given England the lead, but Petar Musa equalised for the Croatians.

Back in the dressing room, Tuchel urged his players to remain calm and to keep playing in their usual style.

In the second half, Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford each scored, securing all three points for England.

He said: “I sat down with them. I gave them quiet time for themselves. I told them to calm down. We just conceded a goal. Calm down, calm their nerves and (then) encourage them to do it our way. I told them that my perception of them and of the last 17 days will not change of this result.”