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England’s 2-0 win over Norway Sparks Tuchel’s criticism

BBC Sport Football •
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England advanced to the World Cup quarter‑finals after a 2–0 win over Norway, with Jude Bellingham scoring twice. Despite the victory, Thomas Tuchel voiced discontent, saying the team had played poorly. He praised their heart but demanded tighter possession and faster play.

Tuchel’s post‑match critique highlighted England’s 3‑2‑5 attack against Norway’s 4‑5‑1 shape, noting frequent momentum swings and a lack of short‑passing repeatsارت and swift transition from defensive blocks to wide triangles.

The first‑half possession of 68 % fell to 44 % in the second half, revealing gaps in control. Norway’s zonal defence allowed Bellingham, Anderson and Gordon to find spaces, yet England failed to convert them consistently, leading to a sloppy finish in the final minutes.

Tuchel’s frustration reflects a tactical mismatch: England can win when exploiting defensive gaps, but without disciplined short‑passing and rapid buildup they risk faltering in later stages. The next match will test whether the squad can meet the German coach’s expectations.