The storm clouds gathering over Kansas City had England's players bracing for impact – not just on the pitch, but in the skies above. A tornado warning was issued as the squad touched down at their World Cup base, threatening to turn their first day into a baptism of fire. The blistering heat that greeted them as they stepped off the plane was replaced by a sense of unease as dark clouds rolled in and severe storms began to brew.
The entire 26-strong squad got stuck in – despite the sweltering temperatures – for a community training session at Swope Soccer Village, but the pleasant start soon gave way to concern. A tornado warning was issued for parts of the city, with the threat of severe weather hanging over their heads like a dark spectre.
With public safety paramount, organisers were forced to shut down the FIFA fan festival early, citing the need to protect fans and staff from the impending storms. It was a decision that couldn't have been taken lightly – especially given England's recent history with weather-related woes.
This latest twist in the weather saga follows a series of issues during their pre-tournament camp in Florida. A delayed warm-up friendly against Costa Rica due to a thunderstorm was just the start, and now they face an even greater threat in Kansas City – one that will test their mettle on and off the pitch.
The team's hotel, the Inn at Meadowbrook, became an unlikely scene of celebration as a couple of hundred fans gathered to welcome them. Over 700 spectators then turned out for the training session, giving England a taste of the support they can expect throughout this World Cup campaign. But with a theft of vital equipment from their base still fresh in their minds, Tuchel's side will know that winning on the pitch won't be the only challenge they face.