How Effective Is Thomas Tuchel's England? Tactical Analysis After Serbia Win

England under Thomas Tuchel have only played six matches, but their 5-0 win over Serbia was the standout performance.

With the World Cup approaching, Tuchel faces the task of finalising his lineup and tactics in a tight timeframe.

Early Results

England have won all five World Cup qualifiers without conceding. Their only defeat was a 3-1 friendly loss to Senegal, despite fielding a strong side. Critics felt England lacked dominance until the Serbia match. Yet, Tuchel’s core principles have emerged and evolved game by game.

Flexible Formations

Tuchel’s side often line up in a 4-4-1-1 but switch to 2-3-5, 3-2-5 or even 2-1-7 in build-up, with full-backs pushing high. A three-man build-up can bypass opposition presses, while a 2-3-5 frees a midfielder to advance. Against Serbia, center backs Marc Guehi and Ezri Konsa, plus Elliot Anderson, led possession, with full-backs and Declan Rice rotating positions.

Reece James and Noni Madueke held width, drawing Serbia wide and creating space to attack through the center.

Maximising Harry Kane

Tuchel uses Kane’s deep drops to pull defenders and free lanes for others. Against Serbia, Kane’s movement allowed Madueke, Anthony Gordon and Morgan Rogers to exploit gaps. Tuchel emphasises off-the-ball runs to stretch defences and create scoring chances.

A More Risky, Direct Style

Unlike past England teams, Tuchel encourages riskier, longer passes to unlock defences. Wingers often face one-on-ones to use their individual quality. Noni Madueke, in particular, has thrived in this system.

Overcoming the 'Golden Generation' Curse

Tuchel selects players who fit his system rather than big names for its own sake. Anderson and Madueke on the right, Anthony Gordon and Tino Livramento on the left, leverage club chemistry and playing styles.

Set-Piece Pragmatism

Tuchel has revived long throws and refined corner routines. Against Serbia, England’s first goal from a zonal corner routine disrupted Serbia’s defenders and let Harry Kane score unmarked.

Defensive Tests

So far, England have controlled possession and pressed quickly to win the ball back. However, the loss to Senegal exposed vulnerabilities when opponents maintain possession and counter-attack. Teams with pace could exploit England’s high line if they sit deep.

Outlook for the World Cup

Tuchel has established a solid foundation with tactical clarity, balance and attacking intent. As injured stars return, integrating them without sacrificing these principles will be his key challenge ahead of the tournament.

Tuchel’s England combine flexible formations, attacking risk and set-piece innovation to forge a distinct style, establishing a strong base for the World Cup.

This topic was reported by BBC.

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