Top News

POS-KUPANG.COM, KUPANG – In just four days, football fans around the world will witness the grand spectacle of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will take place across North America starting June 11, 2026.

President of Respek, Robby Klau, has expressed his admiration for the England national team, placing them among the top contenders to lift the 2026 World Cup trophy.

According to him, the squad’s depth and the players’ performances across Europe’s elite leagues give the Three Lions a genuine chance to end their title drought that has lasted since 1966.

Robby Klau highlighted England’s current strength in attack, featuring world-class players such as Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden, and Harry Kane.

“England currently have the most expensive and deepest squad in the world. If they can shed the weight of expectations, they’ll be a very dangerous side at the 2026 World Cup,” he said.

He also noted that the appointment of Thomas Tuchel as head coach in 2025 is expected to bring tactical discipline and strengthen the team’s mentality. Under the German manager, England are anticipated to show greater consistency in major matches.

However, significant challenges remain. Historically, England have performed well in the group stages but often faltered in the quarterfinals or semifinals. Their defense is still seen as vulnerable, especially against teams that rely on rapid counterattacks.

“The main challenge remains consistency in big games and mental strength during penalty shootouts. If Tuchel can fix those issues, England have a real shot at reaching the final,” he added.

England coach Thomas Tuchel has included Al-Ahli striker Ivan Toney and Aston Villa forward Ollie Watkins in his 26-man squad for Group G at the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

Toney earned his call-up after an outstanding season with Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli, where he helped the team lift the AFC Elite Champions League trophy.

Meanwhile, Watkins impressed with Aston Villa, who recently secured the UEFA Europa League title to guarantee another season in the UEFA Champions League.

Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo also made the squad after shining under interim manager Michael Carrick at Old Trafford towards the end of the season. However, his experienced teammate Harry Maguire was left out of the defensive lineup.

Chelsea star Cole Palmer, who inspired the Blues to victory at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup and scored in England’s defeat to Spain in the UEFA EURO 2024 final, missed out due to an injury-hit season that disrupted his form.

Manchester City playmaker Phil Foden and Real Madrid right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold were also omitted from Tuchel’s final selection.

Tuchel has largely retained the core group of players who guided England through qualifying with a perfect record. Captain Harry Kane will once again lead the Three Lions’ quest for their first World Cup title since 1966.

Speaking to the English media, Tuchel admitted that finalizing the squad was a tough process, but he expressed complete faith in the group he selected.

“Every player has earned their place. The squad and everyone involved will give their all to make the country proud,” he said.

“We know the fans are behind us, and we’re looking forward to a very special summer.”

“Everything I know and have learned about international football is about team chemistry. It’s clear that at this level, the teams with the best chemistry win titles.”

Tuchel added that many factors influenced the selection process. He enjoys making difficult decisions because, in his view, they often bring certain advantages.

England’s 2026 World Cup Squad:

Goalkeepers: Dean Henderson, Jordan Pickford, James Trafford

Defenders: Dan Burn, Marc Guehi, Reece James, Ezri Konsa, Tino Livramento, Nico O’Reilly, Jarell Quansah, Djed Spence, John Stones

Midfielders: Elliott Anderson, Jude Bellingham, Eberechi Eze, Jordan Henderson, Kobbie Mainoo, Declan Rice, Morgan Rogers

Forwards: Anthony Gordon, Harry Kane, Noni Madueke, Marcus Rashford, Bukayo Saka, Ivan Toney, Ollie Watkins

2026 World Cup Group G Schedule:

June 17: England vs Croatia – Dallas Stadium

June 23: England vs Ghana – Boston Stadium

June 27: Panama vs England – New York New Jersey Stadium