Tuchel: Quansah has ankle sprain; Anderson's future to be decided before next match

In the third round of the FIFA World Cup group stage, Panama lost 0-2 to England. After the match, England head coach Tuchel attended the press conference.

How do you evaluate the team's performance today?

Tuchel: We played a difficult game. Everyone watching closely from the sidelines saw the physicality of the match. We were up against a team that hadn't conceded any chances in their first two games. They lost to a stoppage-time counter-attack against Ghana and only had one 50-50 chance against Croatia, with shots on target being very limited. We scored two goals today, created some chances, and had more opportunities in the latter part of the game. We knew this game would be very physical, we knew it would be difficult to control counter-attacks, and we knew they would defend deep. We knew all these circumstances. As a coach, I know what it takes to win these kinds of games. If these games are tight and tough, that's fine, it will help us in our next match. That's the state I'm in right now.

The results of major tournaments usually depend on core players and key figures. Bellingham and Kane both played a role today, what do you think of their performance and impact?

Tuchel: Huge impact, of course, especially in the second half. A huge impact. That's what we need, that's what we want, and that's why we chose them. They make us more threatening, they make us a top team, and because of that, our expectations are high. Yes, that's it.

What's your impression of the pitch today?

Tuchel: It's a very fast pitch with very short grass, almost like artificial turf. Because the grass isn't growing evenly and hasn't been completely leveled, you can see different heights in the grass structure. Therefore, the pace of the game speeds up noticeably, the overall feeling is more "bouncy", and the ball's movement and rebound are very active and less predictable.

This pitch is certainly playable, no problem, but it's completely different from the pitch we used in Boston. The grass there is longer, the pitch is softer, and the pace of the game is slower. In contrast, it's harder and faster here, which makes the overall game more direct and quicker. But it's still completely playable, and no one is complaining about it.

What's the situation with Quansah's injury? And does the right-back position worry you?

Tuchel: An ankle sprain, a typical ankle sprain. He's in a lot of pain. He said it's happened before and takes a few days to recover, hopefully this time too. But it's too painful now, so he's elevating his leg, icing, and compressing it. Of course, I'm worried about this position. We have another injury, so of course I'm concerned. But this is our job, and we'll find a solution in four days.

Does the atmosphere here make you feel like you're playing at home?

Tuchel: Yes, it feels fantastic. The support is incredible, a sea of white behind the goal. The weather is also perfect for the game, warm with light rain. The connection between the fans and the players in the final stages of the game was beautiful, a very special moment. I encourage everyone to feel this moment, because it's easy to get carried away by expectations—you feel like you have to win the group, you have to win every game, but that's not the reality. It's hard work, and it requires respect for the opponent and the nature of the game. Tonight is about feeling the energy and the atmosphere. From tomorrow, we'll prepare for the knockout stages.

Was Bellingham's position on the field adjusted today?

Tuchel: He played as a number 10 when we had the ball. We had six players in the final third because the opponent had a five-man defense. Without the ball, he played as a midfielder against their two midfielders in a man-marking structure. That's it.

How do you explain the difference in performance between the first match and the subsequent two?

Tuchel: That's how football is—it depends on the opponent. The first match was more open, more technical, more about possession. The latter two opponents were physically very strong, played deep defense, played on the counter-attack, and used many players to block the flanks. So attacking against these teams requires a lot of effort. This is good for us; it teaches us discipline, belief, and to keep trying. I know it's not as pretty, but I know what the team put in. We found a way to win, and that's the most important thing.

Do you feel Bellingham is in the state you want him to be in now? Did you inspire him through rotation?

Tuchel: You'll have to ask Bellingham himself. He's in good condition after recovering from injury; he's happy to play freely and can deliver high-intensity performances. That's also why we're controlling his playing time now, around 60 to 70 minutes, because he hasn't been able to sustain this intensity in recent months. He's a key player and needs this intensity. He loves the big stage. We'll support him, and at the same time, we'll push other players to compete for positions.

How is Elliott-Anderson performing? Is he affected by transfer rumors regarding his future?

Tuchel: I think there's a good chance his situation will be resolved before the knockout stages. His performance has been very impressive, he trains well, and he plays well. He's very young, but it's as if he's been here for a long time. He's been getting better and better since the match against Croatia. No injury issues, and the medical team confirmed he can play.

Regarding whether his future needs to be decided before the knockout stages

Tuchel: Possibly, but we have to focus on the next match. If we start thinking ahead to the Round of 16, we'll be punished. We have a difficult match in four days, not in Mexico, but in Atlanta. We have to focus there.

Kane broke the record for England's most goals in the FIFA World Cup, what do you think? What did you say to him?

Tuchel: Everyone is happy for Kane; he's a great teammate, very special, and everyone respects him. I didn't even know about these records—you told me. It's good that he broke records on such an important stage as the FIFA World Cup. He's in very good physical and mental shape right now, and he's eager to go all the way. He's not easily satisfied, which reflects his character. That's why we're so happy he's captain.

Would you give any advice to the German national team?

Tuchel: If they don't need advice, then of course I won't give any. Of course I follow the FIFA World Cup and the German team, but my heart and attention are with the England team. No advice—they have top coaches and teams, and they'll solve their own problems.

Do you think this team is better suited for knockout stages?

Tuchel: I think so. But the first match itself was like a knockout match. Today also felt that way because of the points situation. Players are used to these moments; they've played in the Champions League and Europa League up to the final stages. They know what it takes. We'll get better, no problem. The key is to keep believing, focus on what we can control, and take it one step at a time. We're ready.

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