Thomas Tuchel expresses confidence that the challenging environment in Serbia will galvanize the England team in their upcoming World Cup qualifier. Despite a strong start, Tuchel seeks improvement in England’s performances. He acknowledges Serbia’s strong home record and emphasizes the importance of preparation. Captain Harry Kane echoes Tuchel’s sentiments, relishing the challenge against Serbian defender Nikola Milenkovic as an opportunity to excel.
Thomas Tuchel believes the upcoming World Cup qualifying match against Serbia will be a crucial test for his England squad, one that could ultimately bring out the best in them. Despite a relatively smooth start to his England tenure, marked by four wins and a single defeat, Tuchel acknowledges that sterner challenges lie ahead. The recent 2-0 victory over Andorra, while securing three points, did little to dispel the notion that England's performances have been somewhat underwhelming.
The Three Lions currently dominate Group K with a flawless record from their initial four games. However, the looming trip to the intimidating Stadion Rajko Mitic in Belgrade presents a significant hurdle. Serbia, despite being ranked 32nd globally – a considerable 28 places below England – boast a formidable home record in World Cup qualifiers. Their last defeat on home soil in a World Cup qualifying match dates back to October 2017, a 3-2 loss against Austria. Furthermore, since September 2001, they have only succumbed to defeat once in 28 home matches, a 3-0 loss to Belgium in October 2012.
Historically, England holds a favorable record against Serbia, including matches against Yugoslavia and Serbia and Montenegro, having won their last five encounters with an aggregate score of 11-3. However, Tuchel is wary of underestimating the challenge that awaits them.
"Let’s see how the game plays out. We prepare for everything," Tuchel told reporters, emphasizing the importance of thorough preparation. "We are in a very emotional sporting country – they have world-class sportsmen, amazing talents in football, and will have quality. Our first away game together in a traditional stadium. I think the occasion will bring out the best in us."
Next stop: Serbia pic.twitter.com/zcXbDvEHK0
— England (@England) September 8, 2025
While much has been made of Tuchel's early reign, the German manager has the opportunity to join an elite group of managers by winning his first five competitive matches in charge of England. However, despite the positive results, concerns linger regarding England's style of play, echoing similar criticisms leveled against his predecessor, Gareth Southgate.
In their recent victory against Andorra, England managed a mere 11 shots, with only one occurring after Declan Rice's goal in the 67th minute. This lackluster performance highlights a potential lack of creativity and attacking impetus against lower-ranked opposition. The last time they registered fewer shots against a nation outside the top 100 was in March 2011 against Wales, a game they won 2-0.
On a positive note, England's defense has been resolute, having not conceded a goal in their last six competitive fixtures. They now have the opportunity to equal their longest-ever run of clean sheets in such games, a record of seven consecutive clean sheets set between October 1988 and October 1989 under Bobby Robson.
Tuchel acknowledged the need for improvement but reiterated his commitment to leading England to success during his tenure. "We are here to win. This is why we are here. We will never be arrogant and disrespectful," Tuchel stated. "The result is hard to control, we want a good performance and a top performance to reach our goal. It is a privilege to be England manager and I can assure, I will do everything to be successful. It comes with scrutiny and criticisms, and a lot of opinions."
England captain Harry Kane echoed Tuchel's sentiments, expressing his eagerness to face Serbia despite a subdued performance against Andorra. Tuchel defended Kane's display, highlighting the limited service he received during the match.
Kane has a proven track record of scoring away goals, having found the net against 15 different opponents in his international career. Only Wayne Rooney has scored against more different nations in away matches (16). Kane is particularly looking forward to the challenge posed by Nottingham Forest defender Nikola Milenkovic, viewing it as an opportunity to elevate his own game.
"I always want to play against the best opposition. As a striker, you’re going to come against some great defenders," Kane said of facing Milenkovic. "It will be a physical game. He is a tall, strong defender, so I will have to find a different way of bringing the best out of me. Throughout my career, I’ve loved any challenge, and I love this type of away game. They bring the best out of me, and I’m just looking forward to being out there and helping my team get one step closer to qualifying."