Roy Keane Calls Thomas Tuchel Praise «Slightly Exaggerated» After England’s World Cup Win

Former Irish international Roy Keane finds himself unable to appreciate the effusive praise directed at England’s national team coach Thomas Tuchel after the Three Lions’ spectacular 4-2 opening victory against Croatia in the World Cup.

In a dramatic match on Wednesday evening, the score was tied 2-2 at halftime. Tuchel’s charges secured the win in the second half, prompting captain Harry Kane and midfield star Declan Rice to commend Tuchel’s halftime team talk.

Bayern Munich striker Kane suggested that Tuchel’s speech played a significant role in the victory. Rice elaborated, saying: «He was top at halftime. His words calmed everyone down. I can’t say too much about it, but it was one of those moments where you think, ‘Wow, this is a top coach.’ Then we went out for the second half, everyone was relaxed, and we went all out.»

However, Keane believes this level of adulation is excessive. Speaking on ITV, the long-time Manchester United captain stated: «Isn’t that a bit of an overreaction to a halftime team talk? What else is he supposed to do? That’s his job, isn’t it?»

Keane further explained: «The coach’s role is to provide players with information so they can go out and perform. Every good coach will do that and remind them of what they need to do. I think this is slightly exaggerated.»

England to Face Ghana and Panama Next in the World Cup

Tuchel himself later addressed what he had communicated to his players in the dressing room: «I said, ‘Even if we lose, it doesn’t change my perception of the last 17 days. But let’s do it our way. We are too focused on the result and trying to protect something we don’t even have yet.’ For example, there’s no point in being overly cautious and defending with seven players at the back. The second goal still went in regardless.»

Ultimately, England secured a deserved victory. They are considered co-favorites for the title in the tournament held in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. They currently top Group L and will face Ghana on Tuesday. Their final group stage match will be against Panama on Saturday.

England’s Squad for the 2026 World Cup