MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — Jude Bellingham lauded England‘s resilience and their ability to “win ugly” after coach Thomas Tuchel expressed dissatisfaction with the team’s performance during their 2-1 victory over Norway on Saturday.
The Three Lions rallied from a goal down to secure their semifinal spot against Argentina, following their win over Switzerland later that day, with Bellingham scoring both goals at Hard Rock Stadium.
– Bellingham’s standout performance overshadows quiet display from Haaland
– FIFA claims ‘no evidence’ of ball hitting wire in England’s goal
– Bellingham credits mother’s talk for avoiding a yellow card
Tuchel acknowledged his team’s determination in bouncing back from Andreas Schjelderup‘s 36th-minute goal but initially remarked that England was “lucky” to secure the win after a “sloppy” display.
When it was mentioned to Bellingham via ITV Sport, he responded, “Yeah, well, whatever. It’s a tough task, so I appreciate the effort from all the players who put in a hard shift.”
Later, when asked about Tuchel’s remarks in the mixed zone, Bellingham said, “Maybe. Maybe he doesn’t know how challenging it is to play under these conditions against players like Erling Haaland, [Martin] Ødegaard, [Antonio] Nusa, and [Alexander] Sørloth. That’s not an easy team to face.
“We’ve worked to create a positive atmosphere, and we should carry that into the final four. I can’t praise the lads enough. You won’t win every match by simply passing the ball and being pretty. Sometimes, you have to win ugly.”
In addition to facing Norway, England dealt with the oppressive heat and humidity of South Florida, where temperatures reached 92 degrees Fahrenheit (33 Celsius) at the start of warm-ups.
Tuchel later elaborated on his post-match comments, clarifying his stance regarding the team’s performance.
“My heart is full; there’s no doubt—I’m proud and happy, and I feel so connected to this team because they do whatever it takes to move forward,” he stated. “They refuse to lose and overcome obstacles and adversity.
“However, as a football coach, I have expectations, and I want the best from our team because delivering top-notch performances is key to winning games. So, while I am proud, I believe we can be faster and more clinical. We made too many unforced errors and technical mistakes that impacted our belief.”
While calling for improvements before Wednesday’s match, where England hopes to reach only their second World Cup final since winning it in 1966, Tuchel emphasized that there is no “disconnect” between him and the team.
“There are many areas where we can improve, but there is absolutely no disconnect between me and my team, not even 1%. I am wholeheartedly invested in my players and the way they perform.”
Real Madrid’s Bellingham has now matched Harry Kane with six goals in the tournament, trailing only France‘s Kylian Mbappé and Argentina‘s Lionel Messi, and is just one goal behind Haaland, who did not score against England. Bellingham also scored twice in the round of 16, leading England past co-hosts Mexico.