Thomas Tuchel’s England reign began with a 2-0 victory over Albania in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers on Friday, while Robert Lewandowski’s late strike secured Poland a narrow win against Lithuania.
Goals from debutant Myles Lewis-Skelly and captain Harry Kane ensured a winning start for England at Wembley. However, Tuchel, who took over from Gareth Southgate in January, admitted the performance left room for improvement.
Arsenal teenager Lewis-Skelly, at just 18 years and 176 days old, became England’s youngest debut goalscorer, sliding the ball through goalkeeper Thomas Strakosha’s legs after a brilliant Jude Bellingham assist in the 20th minute.
Despite the win, Tuchel remained critical of the team’s display.
"We can do better, we have to do better. The second half was too slow, with not enough runs off the ball," said the 51-year-old German.
Harry Kane sealed the victory with a stunning control-and-finish from a Declan Rice cross in the 77th minute.
Lewandowski’s 81st-minute strike secured Poland a 1-0 win over Lithuania in Group G. Finland edged Malta 1-0, with Oliver Antman scoring before Malta went down to 10 men.
Cyprus topped Group H with a 2-0 win over San Marino, while Bosnia & Herzegovina beat Romania 1-0. In Group K, Latvia secured a 1-0 victory against Andorra.
