England's tactical struggles against DR Congo: What can they learn?
England faced tactical difficulties against DR Congo, particularly in attack. Coach Thomas Tuchel seeks solutions before the upcoming match against Mexico.
England's performance against DR Congo highlighted several tactical issues that need addressing ahead of their next match against Mexico. Despite longer spells of possession in the second half, which helped minimize DR Congo's build-up play, England struggled to create flowing attacks. They found it particularly hard to break down DR Congo's 4-4-2 defensive shape, a pattern that had emerged in group stage matches against Ghana and Panama.
Tuchel had planned to attack down the flanks using what he called 'wide units' – a triangle of full-back, attacking midfielder, and winger to rotate and pull opponents out of position. However, this tactic did not work as well as hoped, and the coach was forced to introduce alternative methods of attack, such as playing through the middle and changing the personnel in the wide units.
Interestingly, Tuchel may have stumbled upon an effective combination late in the game by moving Declan Rice to a right-back position and Jude Bellingham to a more natural left-sided midfield role. This adjustment allowed Bellingham to play more freely and effectively, as he did against Panama, showcasing top-level dribbling and strong runs in behind the opposition's right-back.
England will need to improve their attacking cohesion and capitalize on these emerging relationships to break down a Mexico side that has yet to concede a goal in the World Cup. Tuchel's team must focus on controlled possession and tactical tweaks that make their play difficult for opponents to read.
