Five things we learned from England's defeat to Japan
01.04.26, 00:00 Updated 01.04.26, 08:19 3 Minute Read
Phil Martin
It was hardly the send off England wanted in their final game at Wembley ahead of the World Cup. An uninspiring 1‑0 defeat to Japan in a friendly that raised more concerns than positives for Thomas Tuchel. His side were disjointed and the only real moment of note came early on when Kaoru Mitoma struck the game's only goal. Here are five things we learned on the night.
Harry Kane’s absence underlined just how thin England’s forward options look when he is unavailable. Kane missed the friendly with a minor issue and was rested as a precaution, leaving England without their focal point and on‑pitch leader. Phil Foden was asked to operate as a false nine but struggled to influence the game, and England failed to register a single shot on target in a lifeless first half, a clear sign of how reliant Thomas Tuchel’s side remain on Kane. With the World Cup approaching and no natural like‑for‑like replacement stepping up, Tuchel must surely consider turning to an experienced, orthodox striker such as Danny Welbeck or Ollie Watkins as Kane's understudy.
Become a member today.
The Sixty Six needs its community to support independent, high-quality coverage of England Football. Subscribe to a monthly or annual package today to be a part of something special.
Already have an account? Sign in
Phil Martin Author, journalist and veteran of eight major tournaments, and England top capper, with a background in sports writing, editing and publishing.