Preview: How to watch England vs Albania as Tuchel kicks off World Cup bid | OneFootball

How to Watch England vs Albania: Live Stream and TV Details for Tuchel’s First Game in Charge

Wembley Welcomes a New England Era

A sense of anticipation looms over Wembley tonight as England prepare to begin their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. This clash with Albania is not just another fixture—it’s the symbolic dawn of a new direction, with Thomas Tuchel stepping into the dugout for the first time as national team head coach.

Photo IMAGO

Having officially taken the reins in January, Tuchel arrives with the mandate to evolve England’s identity after Gareth Southgate’s era ended in heartbreak at Euro 2024. That night in Berlin, a narrow defeat to Spain saw Southgate call time on his eight-year tenure. Lee Carsley held the post on an interim basis, guiding the Three Lions to Nations League promotion before returning to the Under-21s.

Photo IMAGO

Tuchel’s Vision and Early Selections

Tuchel has wasted no time making his mark. While his tactical acumen is well documented, it’s his squad choices that have already stirred debate. Cole Palmer misses out due to injury, but the returns of Jordan Henderson and Marcus Rashford are eye-catching inclusions. It’s a nod to experience in a squad otherwise primed for renewal.

Photo: IMAGO

Tonight’s encounter against Albania marks the first of England’s Group K assignments—a group that includes Serbia, Andorra, Latvia and tonight’s visitors. Latvia will also make their way to Wembley on Monday night, but first comes a test against an Albanian side eager to upset the script.

Where to Watch England vs Albania

TV Channel: Supporters in the UK can watch England vs Albania live and free on ITV1. Coverage starts at 7pm GMT, with kick-off set for 7:45pm.

Live Stream: The match will also be available to stream online via ITVX. Viewers can access the platform for free by registering an account.

The journey to North America begins here, and under the Wembley lights, a new story for England starts to unfold.