WEMBLEY STADIUM, London – Reece James marked his return to the England squad with a breathtaking free-kick, setting the stage for a cozy 3-0 victory over Latvia in World Cup qualifying on Monday. Harry Kane and Eberechi Eze added to the scoreline, solidifying England’s position atop Group K and extending Thomas Tuchel’s winning streak as manager.

The victory, witnessed by a roaring crowd at Wembley, propels England to a 2-0-0 start in their quest for a spot in the 2026 World cup, a tournament that many U.S. fans are eagerly anticipating,especially with games being held on home soil. The team has yet to concede a goal, a testament to Tuchel’s emphasis on defensive solidity.

For James, the goal was particularly significant, punctuating a period of frustration and injury setbacks. “It has been a long time — I have had a frustrating two years,” James said. “I’m so happy to be called up by my contry again. I saw the wall and felt I could bend it round. I was a bit surprised it hit the net. … Thomas Tuchel’s ideas are clear. We have one objective and that starts this week right up until the World Cup.”

His words reflect a renewed sense of optimism within the squad, fueled by Tuchel’s tactical acumen and clear vision for the future. This focus echoes the sentiments of accomplished U.S. coaches like Gregg Berhalter, who emphasize a unified team objective as crucial for success on the international stage.

James’ Journey Back to the Top

Reece James, now 25, boasts 15 international caps, but his path back to the England squad has been fraught with challenges. Since his last appearance in September 2022, a 3-3 draw against Germany, James had only seen a mere six minutes of action for the national team. A series of injuries sidelined him, leaving his international future uncertain.

The influence of former club manager Thomas Tuchel proved pivotal in James’ resurgence. Tuchel,now at the helm of the national team,recognized James’ talent and potential impact,bringing him back into the fold. This mirrors situations seen in American sports, where a coach’s belief in a player can be a major turning point in their career, similar to how Bill Belichick revitalized Randy Moss’s career with the New England Patriots.

James’ stunning free-kick wasn’t just a goal; it was a statement. It was his first senior goal for England, a perfectly executed strike that curled over the wall and nestled inside the far post. The precision and power of the shot were reminiscent of free-kick specialists like David Beckham, showcasing James’ dedication to honing his craft.

The goal highlights the importance of set-piece proficiency in modern soccer. Just as NFL teams dedicate significant practice time to special teams, international soccer teams recognize the value of converting free kicks and corners into goals. These opportunities can often be the difference between victory and defeat, especially in tightly contested matches.

England’s Dominance on Display

The match statistics paint a clear picture of England’s dominance. The Three Lions controlled 78% of possession and unleashed 15 shots on goal, compared to Latvia’s meager two. While Latvia’s defence held firm for a period, they were ultimately undone by James’ moment of brilliance and England’s relentless pressure.

This level of control is exactly what Tuchel is aiming for, building a team that can dictate the tempo and flow of every game. The focus on possession and attacking intent reflects a modern approach to soccer, favored by top clubs and national teams around the world. This contrasts with a more defensive, counter-attacking style, which some smaller nations still employ.

The key to England’s success lies in the balance between attacking flair and defensive discipline. Players like Declan Rice provide the steel and stability in midfield, allowing creative talents like Kane and Eze to flourish. This is a formula that many successful teams, including those in Major League Soccer (MLS), strive to achieve.

Looking ahead, England’s World Cup qualifying campaign presents a crucial opportunity to fine-tune their tactics and build team chemistry. With the United States co-hosting the 2026 World Cup, the pressure will be on for England to perform well. The team will be aiming to emulate the success of the U.S. Women’s National Team, who have consistently dominated on the world stage.

Match Highlights

Watch the highlights from England’s dominant performance against Latvia:

The Tuchel Effect: A New Era for England?

Thomas Tuchel’s arrival has injected a new sense of purpose and direction into the England squad.His tactical expertise and man-management skills have quickly won over the players, fostering a positive and confident atmosphere.

Tuchel’s success at clubs like Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain demonstrates his ability to build winning teams. His focus on clear dialogue, tactical flexibility, and player growth aligns with the principles of top coaches across all sports, from the NFL to the NBA.

Though, challenges remain. The pressure to succeed on the international stage is immense, and England will face stiff competition from other top nations. Injuries, player form, and tactical adjustments will all play a role in determining England’s fate.

Despite these challenges,the early signs are encouraging. Reece James’ return to form, Harry Kane’s consistent goal-scoring record, and the emergence of talents like Eberechi Eze provide a solid foundation for future success.As England continues its World Cup qualifying campaign, fans on both sides of the Atlantic will be watching with anticipation, eager to see if Tuchel can lead the three Lions to glory.

Key Player Statistics

Group K Standings (As of March 25, 2025)