Thomas Tuchel unimpressed as new England era begins with with over Albania - reaction

England 2-0 Albania: Lewis-Skelly made history as the youngest player to score on his debut as the 18-year-old scored the first goal of the Tuchel era

Thomas Tuchel urges England to have hunger to win rather than fear to lose

Thomas Tuchel said England “have to do better” after overseeing a 2-0 win over Albania in his first game in charge, with Myles Lewis-Skelly scoring on his debut and Harry Kane grabbing his 70th international goal at Wembley

Lewis-Skelly, one of two England debutants along with Dan Burn on Tuchel’s first game in charge, scored the first goal of the German’s new era as the 18-year-old converted Jude Bellingham’s through ball in a fairytale moment.

But the second half of England’s opening World Cup qualifying fixture was not overly convincing, with Albania carrying some threat. Captain Kane made sure of the three points as he steered in a composed finish in the 77th minute.

There is work for Tuchel to do but England made a winning start on their road to the 2026 World Cup and they will return to Wembley on Monday for another qualifier against Latvia. "We can do better, we have to do better,” Tuchel said.

Follow all the reaction from Tuchel’s first game in charge at Wembley below

England vs Albania LIVE: Latest World Cup qualifying updates

• England defeat Albania 2-0 at Wembley in Thomas Tuchel's first game in charge
• Myles Lewis-Skelly scores on debut as Harry Kane wraps up win with 70th England goal
• 77' GOAL! Harry Kane doubles England's lead with excellent forward play in the box (ENG 2-0 ALB)
• 42' OFF THE BAR! Debutant Dan Burn close to England goal with towring header (ENG 1-0 ALB)
• 20' GOAL! 18-year-old Myles Lewis-Skelly scores on debut for first goal under Tuchel (ENG 1-0 ALB)

[21 March 2025 19:43 · Jamie Braidwood]

England vs Albania team news and how to watch

England XI: Pickford, Walker, Konsa, Burn, Lewis-Skelly; Rice, Bellingham, Jones; Foden, Kane, Rashford

Subs: D Henderson,Trafford, James, Guehi, J Henderson, Colwill, Eze, Rogers,Gordon, Solanke, Bowen, Livramento.

England vs Albania will be shown live on ITV 1 and ITV X

[21 March 2025 19:42 · Jamie Braidwood]

Thomas Tuchel explains his first England team and describes his emotions

"Big occasion. I'm a bit nervous, but more excited and happy we get the journey going.

"It was a simple decision to bring [Dan Burn] in. He had that huge final and impact here a few days ago. We didn't wasnt to disrupt his wave. We opted for Dan and he was impressive in training and vocal.

"It felt like his 50th cap and not his first one.

Impressive. I understand why everyone loves the boy [Myles Lewis-Skelly] - a big character and very talented player. He is ready to go."

[21 March 2025 19:41 · Jamie Braidwood]

England vs Albania

Here we go! Thomas Tuchel’s first game in charge is just moments away. Tuchel will observe the anthems, which are next.