England nearly flawless! Tuchel’s Three Lions seal World Cup 2026 group stage as Bellingham shines

It wasn’t perfect, but it was close to flawless. England were seconds from a clean sweep in Group L of the World Cup 2026, finishing the group phase top of the table and brimming with belief. Jude Bellingham ran the show while Thomas Tuchel rotated his squad without losing intensity. Here’s the full verdict, player by player.

Bellingham bosses England’s midfield

Jude Bellingham has been the heartbeat of this England side. He drives forward, links play and arrives late in the box to hurt defences — the kind of all-action midfielder every contender needs. When he gets on the ball in the final third, the Three Lions look dangerous.

It’s his influence as much as his output that stands out. Bellingham drags opponents out of position, opens space for Kane and turns tidy possession into genuine chances. Tuchel has his on-pitch leader.

Tuchel’s smart rotation in Group L

Facing the likes of Croatia, Tuchel rotated heavily without sacrificing control. The fringe players answered the call, proof of real squad depth — essential in a 48-team tournament with a punishing schedule.

The midfield dictated the tempo and the defence looked solid for long spells. A late lapse, however, is a reminder that in the knockout rounds you have to concentrate for the full 90 minutes.

What’s next for England in the last 16

England head into the last 16 as one of the favourites, but the real tournament starts now. From here, one mistake ends your campaign. Managing the squad and keeping Kane and Bellingham fresh will be decisive.

If the Three Lions hold this defensive structure and attacking edge, they belong firmly in the title conversation. The dream of bringing it home is very much alive.

FAQ