England remain on course for the 2026 World Cup after a routine win over Andorra on Saturday, yet the display was anything but convincing.
Goals came via a Christian Garcia own goal and a second-half header from Declan Rice, but the Euro 2024 finalists once again lacked creativity and cutting edge.
Tuchel’s men dominated possession and territory from the opening whistle, forcing Andorra to sit deep and absorb wave after wave of pressure. Despite that control, the Three Lions struggled to carve out clear chances. Eberechi Eze saw a goal-bound effort brilliantly blocked by Max Llovera, while Marcus Rashford wasted a big opportunity by curling over the bar after the restart.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the first half when Reece James linked up with Noni Madueke, whose cross was diverted into his own net by Garcia. But instead of sparking a flurry of goals, the pattern of frustration continued.
England eventually sealed the win thanks to another James delivery, this time met by Rice with a thumping header. Debutant Elliot Anderson impressed with his energy, though his close-range strike was denied by goalkeeper Iker Álvarez.
While the result keeps England’s 100% qualifying record intact, the uninspiring performance raises fresh questions about Tuchel’s ability to get the best out of a richly talented squad.
