CORNERFLICK
Thomas Tuchel praised England’s mentality after their 6-4 win over France in the World Cup third-place match, saying the squad had taken another step towards something special.
Tuchel told the BBC that England started strongly in the first half but struggled after the break, with fatigue telling after a packed schedule. He said the team had played in heat and at altitude, while France arrived with an extra day of recovery and a shorter journey.
The Germany coach said the physical load was obvious in the second half, with cramp and heavy legs affecting his players, but he never doubted their spirit.
He also argued the result showed England can close the gap on football’s biggest sides, even if that gap still exists. France reached the World Cup final four years ago and won the tournament eight years ago, and Tuchel said the next challenge is Spain in the Nations League.
Tuchel added that watching his side fight until the end gave him energy, even if the players would feel the effects after the game.