Tension is palpable in Miami as England prepares to face France in the World Cup bronze final, with Thomas Tuchel still fending off criticism for his tactics after that heart-stopping semi-final defeat to Argentina. The former US President Donald Trump weighed in, questioning Tuchel's decision to make Harry Kane a 'defensive player' in the closing stages – a move that's left many scratching their heads.
Tuchel hit back at the criticism, saying, "Do you use Donald Trump as your witness for the case? Just asking. I view them in the same way, we were too passive, got too passive, if you're asking if I regret my decision, then no, I don't regret my decisions, I felt we became too passive." He added, "The decisions are made under stress. The decisions are made in-game, in-life coaching, I would regret it if I didn't help, if I didn't react, but I have no regrets over my decisions."
Speculation is rife about Tuchel's long-term future as England manager, with some questioning whether he'll be knighted like his predecessors – a fate that currently seems distant. The German has only been in the role for a relatively short period, and reports of a "verbal agreement" between Pep Guardiola and the FA over the managerial position have added fuel to the fire.
Today's match against France is a chance for both teams to salvage some pride – it's not exactly what either side wanted, but it's better than going home empty-handed. For France, it marks the end of an illustrious era under Didier Deschamps, and Kylian Mbappe is still in with a shout for the Golden Boot. England will be missing Reece James and Jordan Henderson due to injury, but Tuchel may give some fringe players a run-out.
It's a high-scoring affair that often pans out, offering England a glimmer of hope to end their World Cup campaign on a high note – or at least ease the pressure on Tuchel's shoulders. The question is, will they respond to the disappointment and silence the critics with a winning performance?