Thomas Tuchel reveals approach for World Cup 2026 after England get 'difficult group' | OneFootball

England manager has called for calm as World Cup 2026 group is revealed

During Friday’s star-studded event in Washington D.C, which featured US President Donald Trump, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, the Three Lions were drawn in Group L alongside Croatia, Ghana and Panama.

England will face Croatia in their tournament opener - a repeat of the 2018 World Cup semi-final - before taking on Ghana and then Panama in their final Group L fixture.

As the top-ranked side in the group, the Three Lions will be overwhelming favourites to qualify for the round of 32 with relative ease, though Tuchel insists their opponents all deserve respect.

Delivering his reaction to the draw, Tuchel said: "Difficult group, difficult opener. Difficult group with Croatia and Ghana, two regulars in World Cups and two proud and strong nations.

“Panama, I don't know much about Panama at the moment but we will find out about it before the tournament starts, of course.

"For me, I'm only experienced group football in Champions League formats and the way to approach it was to always give it the biggest respect and to put all the focus into winning the group.

“It always seems difficult like our group now but we are confident and we will be well prepared when we arrive.

Thomas Tuchel now knows England’s potential route to World Cup glory

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“Nobody should be underestimated. Of course, Croatia is the standout, they're the highest ranked team from pot two that we got into out group but listen, Ghana is always full of talent and can always surprise and has a big history in World Cup football, and also Panama will try to make the most in their underdog role. No one can be underestimated, everyone deserves the fullest respect and we can show that."

Due to being drawn in Group L, England will not play their first match until June 17, 2025 - almost a week after the tournament officially gets underway with host nation Mexico taking on South Africa.

Asked if starting later was something he desired, Tuchel said: “We didn't desire anything we just handled the situation as it is.

“You get a little more days before and then you get a condensed schedule later in the tournament. Everything comes with in upside and downside."