England coach Thomas Tuchel says tonight’s World Cup qualifier against Serbia in Belgrade will be the toughest test of his reign so far.
The Three Lions have won all four of their qualifiers without conceding a goal, but performances have lacked spark since Tuchel replaced Gareth Southgate after Euro 2024. Wins over Andorra, Albania and Latvia have been routine, but the clash in Belgrade promises to be far more hostile.
Serbia, led by coach Dragan Stojkovic, boast attacking threats such as Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic and AEK Athens forward Luka Jovic. England captain Harry Kane admitted it will be “a difficult evening” inside the Rajko Mitic Stadium, where a partial ban still leaves over 40,000 fans expected.
Even the walk onto the pitch has become part of the challenge. The players must pass through a long, narrow tunnel covered in graffiti, with Red Star Belgrade’s ultras waiting at the other end.
Tuchel insists his team is ready: “It is our first away game together in a traditional stadium. I think the occasion will bring out the best in us.”
England top Group K by five points, though Serbia have a game in hand. Victory tonight would all but guarantee England’s place at the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico.
Tuchel has just seven games left before naming his squad, and says this fixture will be “proof of concept” for his plans. So far, results have been solid but uninspiring. Tonight’s test in Belgrade will show whether his England are moving forward or standing still.
