Thomas Tuchel’s team continues to progress, but the opponent’s lack of quality is clearly visible

England vs Wales ended in another comfortable win for England on Thursday, October 9, as they beat the visitors 3-0 in an international friendly at Wembley Stadium. Thomas Tuchel has a good record as England manager so far, registering his sixth win in seven games on Thursday.

The 52 year old German manager proved that his appointment was the right decision. The Three Lions are almost certain to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, but the quality of their recent opponents in World Cup qualifying should not overwhelm supporters.

England vs Wales: Three Lions Win Again Against Modest Opposition

England have played against the likes of Andorra, Serbia and Wales under Tuchel, who by any stretch of the imagination are not great teams. In fact, for a manager who has won UEFA Champions League and Bundesliga titles, these games should not provide the challenge he craves.

England vs Wales was a piece of cake for the Three Lions, who scored all three goals in the first 20 minutes.

But that’s the nature of management in international football. Most players can face inferior opponents and suddenly be tested against quality opponents in the knockout stages of a major tournament. It was a moment of truth for a team that came without much preparation.

Of course it is not Tuchel’s fault that England have so far played ordinary teams under his tutelage. However, the series of wins he achieved in his new job will be underestimated by some people, so he can’t do anything about it.

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Positive and Negative Ahead of Latvia vs England

England have kept a clean sheet in each of their last three matches. This is a sign that their defense is solid and of course that will calm Tuchel. England’s defense is an ideal mix of youth and experience with Marc Guehi and John Stones at centre-back.

Moreover, after a somewhat lackluster performance against lowly Andorra, the Three Lions have scored eight goals in their last two games, which is also very encouraging.

Tuchel has taken a brave decision by dropping Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden from the squad. Both Bellingham and Foden are star players for their respective clubs and going international without them requires courage from the manager.

However, the German’s success with the England national team will ultimately be measured by his ability to outperform Gareth Southgate, his predecessor, at major tournaments. And for that to happen, England will have to win on the big nights in the tournament.

Until now, there is no evidence to suggest that Tuchel can inspire his team to do this. This has nothing to do with his ability as a manager, but can be attributed to the simple fact that his team is yet to face a tough test.

Latvia vs England is Tuchel’s next match, and it is a World Cup qualifier, which will be another matchup with an unclear opponent. It seems that the German coach will have to wait until next summer to get his first test as manager of the Three Lions.

Main Photo

Credit: IMAGO / Action Plus

Recording Date: 09.10.2025