England manager Thomas Tuchel believes his team is primed to "prove a point" in their upcoming World Cup qualifier against Serbia, despite a less-than-stellar performance in their recent victory over Andorra. The Three Lions, who finished as Euro 2024 runners-up, have maintained a perfect record in Group K, winning all four of their matches without conceding a goal. However, their performances have yet to truly impress.
Following a somewhat lackluster 2-0 win against Andorra at Villa Park, where an own goal and a Declan Rice header secured the victory, Tuchel's focus has swiftly shifted to the tougher challenge awaiting them in Belgrade. The match against Serbia is scheduled for Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 7:45 PM UK time.
"We will try to prove a point – to win and put out the next performance, and to be tough in the circumstances," Tuchel stated. He anticipates a highly charged atmosphere in Belgrade, acknowledging the emotional stadium and crowd they will face. Tuchel also emphasized the need for his team to adapt to the conditions, including the unknown state of the pitch, while making no excuses.
Tuchel is preparing his team for a physical battle against Serbia, expecting them to employ a man-marking approach. He also recognizes the high quality of Serbia's attacking players, noting their direct style of play. "They have high quality up front – international top quality up front – so they play very direct and we have to step up to this and adapt to the circumstances, adapt to the opponent and then prove the point that we're a strong group, and we're on the right way," Tuchel said.
Despite the challenges, Tuchel expressed confidence in his squad, highlighting the positive training sessions they've had. "Because I feel like we had an excellent five days now, and it's on us now," he said. "Two days to prepare for Tuesday and hopefully prove the point there too that we are ready for that, adapt to what's coming, accept the physicality, overcome the adversity and get another win".
Tuchel has hinted that Elliot Anderson, who made his England debut against Andorra, could be in line for a start against Serbia. Tuchel praised Anderson's performance, noting his physicality, mobility, and ability to break lines. "He's just a very, very good football player," Tuchel said. "He has the physicality, he's very mobile at No 6. He has the body, he loves to defend, he loves to put his body inside to duels. He loves passing, he loves to break the lines, he's very mobile in this game. It was a pleasure to see".
The England squad has seen some changes, with Adam Wharton withdrawing due to injury and Ruben Loftus-Cheek being called up. Tuchel faces a midfield dilemma as he searches for the right balance, with players like Jordan Henderson and Declan Rice also competing for minutes.
England and Serbia have only met once before, in the Euro 2024 group stage, where England secured a 1-0 victory. As the Three Lions continue their quest to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, the upcoming match in Serbia presents a significant test of their resolve and ability to perform under pressure. A win in Belgrade would not only extend their lead in Group K but also serve as a statement of intent as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
