Arabic version: توخيل يؤكد التزام إنجلترا باستراتيجية ركلات الترجيح لسوثغيت

England manager Thomas Tuchel has announced that the team will adhere to the penalty shootout strategy established by his predecessor, Sir Gareth Southgate, as they prepare for their first knockout match against DR Congo in the World Cup 2026. The match is set to kick off on Wednesday in Atlanta at 17:00 BST, and it could lead to a penalty shootout.

According to BBC News, Tuchel emphasized the importance of the Football Association’s long-standing program for penalty preparations. He stated, “We are prepared. We have a process, the players have a process,” while acknowledging the challenges of simulating the pressure of a real shootout.

Southgate’s meticulous approach to penalties transformed England’s fortunes, leading to three successful shootouts between 2018 and 2024 after a historically poor record. He implemented regular practice and selected penalty takers well in advance to ensure clarity and accountability.

Despite the established plan, Tuchel has cautioned that the unpredictability of a shootout remains. He noted that while the team knows the designated penalty takers, the outcome of the match could influence who ultimately takes the crucial kicks.

Looking ahead to the match against DR Congo, Tuchel has tempered expectations for a standout performance, suggesting that the focus should be on securing a win rather than showcasing flair. He remarked, “This is the moment to go through, to get the job done, to step up, to show individual quality and little moments.”