JUDE BELLINGHAM once again played an essential role for England, making a significant contribution to another World Cup success.
The midfielder for the Three Lions was pivotal in the 2-0 group stage win over Panama, netting the first goal to boost the team’s morale and later assisting Harry Kane with his second goal.
Credit: SUNSPORT
Credit: SUNSPORT
His outstanding performance somewhat masked ongoing issues for Thomas Tuchel’s squad, which encountered challenges against a well-structured defense.
Next up, England faces a similar challenge in the last-32 as they prepare to battle DR Congo.
Manager Thomas Tuchel has some decisions to make before that game, particularly after recent midfield adjustments.
This week’s Tactics Exposed features insights from SunSport’s Dean Scoggins, highlighting the key takeaways from the match.
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Wahey Jude
Bellingham again demonstrated that he is the team’s central figure, highlighting his ability to influence the match.
However, his role varied from earlier performances.
Dean said: “Jude Bellingham, what else can we say? It’s time to clear any doubts about his place in the England squad.
“He absolutely deserves to be here. We’ve asserted this from the start, and he keeps proving it, not just through talent but also tactically.”
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Credit: SUNSPORT
“Thomas Tuchel noticed Bellingham’s commitment, which has been evident since their training camp in Florida.
“We witnessed it in action on Saturday; he was dynamic—either driving forward or falling back, with little in between.
“The heat map reflects this, showing minimal activity around the halfway line.
“He was either positioned high in attack or back supporting defensively, even dropping deeper to receive the ball.
“He took on roles resembling a number six, eight, and ten instead of just playing as a forward like in earlier matches.”
Bellingham’s movement off the ball was as critical as his actions when in possession.
Dean added: “England utilized a classic 3-1-6 formation with [Marcus] Rashford dropping deep and [Nico] O’Reilly making a strategic run to distract Panama’s back five.
“Rashford pulls the defender away, O’Reilly draws the right center-back away, creating space for Bellingham.
“Bellingham then collaborates with Rashford before delivering a cross for [Harry] Kane’s goal.
Credit: SUNSPORT
Credit: SUNSPORT
“That was a well-orchestrated play; against a 5-4-1 formation, it’s crucial to draw the wing-backs forward to create space behind them.”
Dean continued: “With [Morgan] Rogers on one side and Bellingham on the other side of Kane, Bellingham’s support for Anderson allowed Rogers to make intelligent runs alongside Kane.
“As a result, unlike the Ghana match, there were multiple runners, all concentrated around Bellingham.”
Ell of a performance
While Bellingham shone, Manchester City‘s new £100 million signing, Elliot Anderson, played a vital role in the team’s triumph.
Dean elaborated: “England featured a 3-1-6 formation without [Declan] Rice. The choice of Quansah over Spence surprised many.
“However, this decision likely arose from the need for one of the full-backs to stay back, while O’Reilly advanced forward, necessitating a right center-back to act as a full-back.”
“Anderson played a significant role in midfield, managing the area independently.
“Overall, he had a remarkable performance, instilling hope for a midfield that will eventually include Rice.”
Credit: SUNSPORT
Credit: SUNSPORT
As England prepares for the match against Congo and with Rice becoming available again, will Tuchel strike the right balance between both players?
Dean believes, “That’s the crucial question for Tuchel in the 48 hours leading up to the Congo encounter.
“Will Rice replace Rogers; if so, will he position himself further up, or is it a choice between Anderson or Rice?”
Marc’s set go
However, England faced challenges as Panama presented significant counter-attacking threats.
Dean assessed: “The 3-1-6 or 3-2-5 configurations enhance defensive structure to intercept passes with an added defender.
“When possession is lopsided, one center-back often steps up to support play, as England lacks two midfielders on either side.
“[Marc] Guehi often fills that role; a common sight for Manchester City, particularly with O’Reilly pushing up the pitch.
“Yet, Panama successfully breached the defense twice, necessitating Guehi to sprint back to confront the opposing striker near [Jordan] Pickford.
Credit: SUNSPORT
Credit: SUNSPORT
“Anderson, Guehi, and [Ezri] Konsa needed to recover at various points.
“This is an area England must evaluate. They were fortunate with one offside call.
“The risk lies in diagonal passing patterns that expose weaknesses in a 3-1-6 setup due to the reduced midfield presence.
