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Tuchel Adopts England’s Shootout Playbook Ahead of Congo Clash

7/1/2026

Summary

England Shootout Plan

Thomas Tuchel will follow England’s penalty-shootout programme before the DR Congo match in Atlanta.
The programme, introduced by Gareth Southgate, raised England’s shoot-out record to three wins in four.
Midfielder Declan Rice listed Harry Kane, Ivan Toney, Marcus Rashford, Conor Gallagher, Bukayo Saka, Jude Bellingham and himself as penalty-takers.
Rice said the Trionda ball should be harder for keepers, while Noni Madueke confirmed his readiness for a spot-kick.

Summary

Tuchel Reflects

Thomas Tuchel (coach) said his last penalty shoot-out was in 2022 when Chelsea lost cup finals to Liverpool on penalties.
In the 2022 Cup final, Chelsea players scored until goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga missed, letting Liverpool win 11-10.
He called the defeats painful experiences teaching improvement.
He said the England penalty programme reflects the Football Association (FA) work, his growth after those losses, and drives the World Cup shoot-out plan.

History

Historical Context

England were eliminated by Germany in a 6-5 penalty shoot-out at Wembley on 26 June 1996, after a 1-1 draw in the Euro 1996 semi-final. The tournament, hosted by England, was the first European Championship to feature 16 teams and to apply the golden-goal rule in extra time. The semi-final attracted 75,862 spectators, highlighting the event’s prominence in English football history.

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England Shootout Plan

Thomas Tuchel will follow England’s penalty-shootout programme before the DR Congo match in Atlanta.
The programme, introduced by Gareth Southgate, raised England’s shoot-out record to three wins in four.
Midfielder Declan Rice listed Harry Kane, Ivan Toney, Marcus Rashford, Conor Gallagher, Bukayo Saka, Jude Bellingham and himself as penalty-takers.
Rice said the Trionda ball should be harder for keepers, while Noni Madueke confirmed his readiness for a spot-kick.

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