England celebrates 3-0 victory against Greece-Tuchel under criticism!

England celebrates 3-0 victory against Greece-Tuchel under criticism!

In a gripping Nation League duel, the English national football team in Athens defeated the Greek selection 3-0 and thus impressively reciprocates the defeat in the first leg. Without the superstar Harry Kane in the starting eleven, which was only substituted in the 66th minute, the team of interim coach Lee Carsley showed a strong performance. The striker Ollie Watkins opened the goal series in the 7th minute, followed by an own goal of the Greek goalkeeper Odisseas Vlachodimos in the 78th minute and a goal of the debutant Curtis Jones in the 83rd minute.

The decision to initially leave Kane on the bench caused a conversation. Carsley explained that Watkins had to gain more experience and praised Kane for his "fantastic attitude" for this decision. The English team had to deal with massive personnel failures, as nine players, including stars such as Phil Foden and Declan Rice, had to cancel injured. Despite these challenges, England now leads Group 2 of League B and has the chance to secure the group victory and direct ascent on the last match day.

Tuchel under pressure

The group victory will be decided on Sunday in the remote duel: England receives Ireland while Greece has to compete in Finland. If England secured first place, this would be a big step towards the climb. But the anticipation of the 2026 World Cup is overshadowed by criticism of Thomas Tuchel, who does not take over the Three Lions until January 1st. Critics complain that Tuchel is not showing himself and was not even present in Athens, which is considered a waste of time for the upcoming challenges.