England brace for Serbia test as Tuchel’s World Cup plan unfolds

England brace for Serbia test as Tuchel’s World Cup plan unfolds

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Photo:Reuters

England’s path to the 2026 World Cup takes a tougher turn as they prepare to face Serbia in Belgrade’s famous Rajko Mitic Stadium, a ground known for its fiery atmosphere, passionate fans, and intimidating setting. For coach Thomas Tuchel, this match is more than just a qualifier—it is the first real test of his new blueprint for the national team.

The Background: A Quiet Start Under Tuchel

Since replacing Gareth Southgate after Euro 2024, Tuchel has led England to four wins in World Cup qualifying. They have beaten Andorra twice, Albania, and Latvia, without conceding a single goal. On paper, the results look perfect—four victories, clean sheets, and top spot in Group K.

But the performances have been far from inspiring. The recent 2-0 win against Andorra was slow, dull, and left thousands of fans leaving the stadium early. England seem to lack an identity and creativity under Tuchel, and critics are waiting for a sign of real progress.

Tuchel himself has admitted the team is still in a building phase. He has used these early camps to learn about his players, and now he wants to use the next few matches to shape the squad for the World Cup. With only seven games left before he announces his final squad, every match matters.

The Challenge in Belgrade

Now comes a much harder test: Serbia away. Playing in Belgrade is not easy. The Rajko Mitic Stadium, home of Red Star Belgrade, is one of the loudest and most passionate football grounds in Europe. The stadium will still be almost full despite a partial closure due to fan misconduct in June, when supporters were punished for racist abuse during a game against Andorra.

Even the stadium tunnel adds to the atmosphere. Players must walk 240 metres from the dressing room to the pitch, with graffiti on the walls, a low ceiling, and the sound of Serbia’s “ultras” waiting at the other end. It is a stadium built to test visiting teams’ nerves.

Serbia are a talented side coached by Dragan Stojkovic. They beat Latvia 1-0 on Saturday and sit five points behind England in the group, with one game in hand. Their attack is dangerous, led by Juventus forward Dušan Vlahović and striker Luka Jović. Aleksandar Mitrović, their top scorer in qualifiers, may also play. Defensively, Nottingham Forest centre-back Nikola Milenković will try to stop Harry Kane and England’s forwards.

England’s Mindset

England captain Harry Kane has already warned his teammates: “It’s going to be tough. It will be a difficult evening, but we’ve had these games before and handled them well. It will be even more hostile, and they will try to make it as difficult as they can for us.”

Tuchel has described this match as a “proof of concept.” He wants to show his system is working, that England can win in tough conditions, not just against weaker opponents. He has hinted at tactical changes, possibly moving away from the 4-4-1-1 formation and returning to the three-defender system he has used at club level.

But more than formations, what people want to see is energy, creativity, and a sense of identity. So far, Tuchel’s England look solid but uninspiring. Serbia will test their spirit, discipline, and teamwork in a way smaller nations could not.

The Stakes

England lead Group K with 12 points from four matches, while Serbia trail with 7 points from three. A win in Belgrade would put England in a commanding position, making qualification almost certain. But anything less will invite pressure and questions about Tuchel’s leadership.

Tuchel knows his job is simple: win the World Cup. His contract runs only until the summer of 2026, and whatever happens, he is expected to leave after the tournament. This short window adds urgency to his project—he must build a winning team quickly.

He explained his approach clearly: “The first two camps were about learning, the next ones are about competition and narrowing the squad.” In other words, time is running out, and England must start showing they are a serious World Cup contender.

Why This Match Matters

This clash is not just another qualifier. It is the first time Tuchel’s England will play away in a difficult stadium. It is the first time they will face a real opponent with quality players who can punish mistakes. And it is the first time fans and experts will truly see what Tuchel’s England looks like under pressure.

If they win, the criticism of dull performances may fade, and belief in Tuchel’s plan will grow. If they struggle, doubts about his leadership and tactics will only get louder.

The eyes of the football world will be on Belgrade to see whether Tuchel’s England are moving forward—or standing still.

Sept. 9, 2025 5:36 p.m. 472

England vs Serbia, World Cup 2026 qualifiers

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