Tuchel confident ‘this camp will not define us’ after England defeat to Japan ahead of World Cup | OneFootball

Thomas Tuchel insisted that England will not let their recent camp “define them” ahead of the summer FIFA World Cup, despite a 1–0 defeat at Wembley Stadium.

A goal from Kaoru Mitoma proved the difference as Japan secured victory, with Tuchel taking a measured view of England’s two-game camp.

“It is what it is. We got punished for not a lot against Uruguay, and today it was one counterattack,” he said.

“We knew that before, I knew that before. I am disappointed, but it is important to put it into perspective. Our players are heavily invested in club and European football. We played against two well-drilled teams, very good opponents.

“We had a big change in the middle of camp and suddenly had seven or eight players who had to leave. It’s not an excuse; it’s an explanation of why it has not been perfectly smooth. We made life difficult for ourselves by narrowing it and not using the full-backs.

“We couldn’t score when the chances were there, but it is important to learn from it. This camp will not define us.”

England were without captain Harry Kane due to injury, and Tuchel admitted his absence was felt.

“In his absence, do we have the same threat? Bayern Munich do not, and no team in the world would. It is normal. Teams rely on top players.

“Harry dropped out, so we lost him not just as a player but as a personality. We also lost Bukayo Saka, Noni Madueke, Declan Rice and John Stones. They are the core and the driving force of this group.

“It affected us; this is normal. We can win without Harry, we will win without Harry, and we have. It is just easier with him.”

Tuchel also acknowledged the challenge posed by Japan but admitted he expected more from his side.

“I expected exactly what we got – a well-drilled team,” he said.

“Playing from outside to inside and crossing lines, everything was there. We should have defended the goal better. This is mainly on us. We controlled the game. I know how good they are. It was clear before, and we were very aware. That is just what it is.”