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Tuchel emphasizes defensive improvements ahead of England vs. Ghana clash

The Guardian Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 22, 2026, 11:30 PM

Last updated Jun 22, 2026

Tuchel emphasizes defensive improvements ahead of England vs. Ghana clash

Summary

England's head coach Thomas Tuchel has called for improved defensive play as they prepare to face Ghana in Boston on Tuesday night. Following a 'wake-up call' from their opening match against Croatia, which ended in a 4-2 victory, Tuchel stressed the need for greater focus on defensive structure. England can secure top spot in Group L with a win against Ghana, contingent on Panama's performance against Croatia. Tuchel remains cautious and has insisted that the team should not underestimate their opponents.

Source Links

The Guardian Sport

By the Numbers

•England plays Ghana in Boston on June 23.
•Tuchel cited defensive lapses during the Croatia match.
•A win would guarantee England top spot in Group L.
•England needs Panama to lose to Croatia to secure top of the group.

Latest Updates

11:30 PMThe Guardian Sport — Thomas Tuchel urges England to improve defence against Ghana after ‘wake-up call’

What they're saying

"
Win over Ghana could secure top spot in the group ‘We dropped too deep,’ Tuchel says of Croatia opener Thomas Tuchel believes England were given a wake-up call by Croatia and must focus on improving their defensive structure as the World Cup progresses. England will qualify for the knockout stages from Group L with a game to spare if they beat Ghana in Boston on Tuesday night, and will top the group if Panama then fail to beat Croatia in the later game, but Tuchel is determined not to take anything for granted. The head coach has placed a heavy emphasis on aggressive football and has said his side were too quick to fall back during the first half of the 4-2 win over Croatia. Continue reading...
— The Guardian Sportby Jacob Steinberg in Boston

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