Tuchel reflects on ‘difficult group’ after England learn 2026 World Cup opponents

England head coach Thomas Tuchel reflected on his team’s World Cup group after overseeing a perfect qualifying campaign that saw eight wins from eight without conceding a goal.

England will face Croatia, the 2018 runners up, Panama and Ghana in Group L next summer.

Speaking after the draw in Washington D.C, head coach Thomas Tuchel said: “Difficult group, difficult opener.

“Croatia and Ghana [are] two regulars in World Cups and two proud and strong nations. Panama I don’t know much about at the moment, but we will before the tournament starts.

“For me, I’ve only experienced group football in Champions League formats and the way to approach it was to always give it the biggest respect and to put all the focus into winning the group.

“It always seems difficult, like our group now, but we are confident and we will be well prepared when we arrive.”

Croatia the Standout Opponent

Croatia were the strongest possible opponent England could draw from pot two, and they are the team that beat England in the 2018 World Cup semi-finals.

England last met Panama at that same tournament, winning 6-1 in the group stage.

They did manage to avoid the likes of Scotland and Norway, but the Croats will pose a significant threat to one of the favourites.

Tuchel emphasised that every team poses a threat. He said: “Nobody should be underestimated. Of course Croatia is the standout nation but Ghana is always full of talent, can always surprise and has a big history in World Cup football.

“Panama will try to make the most of their underdog role. No-one can be underestimated, everyone deserves the fullest respect.”