England vs Germany matchday thread - will history finally change

[FrostDrifter]

England face Germany in Group E of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Sunday June 22 in Philadelphia. England have not beaten Germany in a competitive match outside of a penalty shootout since 1966 at Wembley. This is the fixture that defines English football anxiety more than any other. Tuchel, a German manager, has been preparing England for this moment since taking the job.

Both teams are expected to have won their opening games against Croatia and Slovakia respectively. A win for either team likely means topping Group E and a more favourable route through the knockouts.

Use this thread for matchday reactions and post-match discussion

[Frost Gary]

Today is the day we find out if Tuchel has actually changed something fundamental about how England approach this fixture or whether the same psychological patterns emerge under the biggest possible pressure

[Ann]

Bellingham in this moment on this stage is the player England have been waiting for. He was made for matches like this. The question is whether the system around him allows him to express that quality

[MickFoley00]

Whatever happens, England are through to the knockouts with a win or draw here. That context matters. Tuchel can set up to not lose and play for a draw without disaster. The Germany manager does not have that luxury if they need the points

[BigDogMatt97]

Germany have not looked convincing this tournament from what I have seen. Nagelsmann's high press works against lower quality opponents but England have the technical quality to play through it if they stay composed

[SlateCougar]

Prediction: 1-1 draw. England go ahead early, Germany equalise before half time, second half is tactical and neither side risks everything for the win. England finish second in the group. Germany finish first

[Plateau65]

If Kane scores against Germany in a World Cup I will genuinely lose my mind. That would be the moment that defines his legacy in a single image