England suffered a shock 3-1 home defeat to Senegal in a friendly at Nottingham Forest’s City Ground on Tuesday, intensifying scrutiny on head coach Thomas Tuchel just a year ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Kane Scores Early, but England Collapse
Harry Kane gave England the perfect start in the 7th minute, continuing his streak of scoring in every game under Tuchel. The goal came after Edouard Mendy spilled Anthony Gordon’s shot, allowing Kane to tap home his 73rd international goal.
Despite the early lead, England quickly lost control. Goals from Ismaila Sarr, Habib Diarra, and Cheikh Sabaly turned the game in Senegal’s favour, handing England their first ever defeat to an African nation after 22 unbeaten encounters.
Tuchel’s Gamble Fails
Tuchel, who publicly criticised his side’s underwhelming 1-0 win over Andorra in World Cup qualifying just days earlier, rang in the changes — making 10 alterations to the starting XI, with only Kane retaining his spot.
However, the changes didn’t bring the desired spark. Defensive lapses proved costly, with Kyle Walker caught napping as Sarr punished the hosts with a clinical finish from Nicolas Jackson’s cross.
Henderson Impresses, but Defence Falters
In goal, Dean Henderson — starting in place of Jordan Pickford — produced a handful of strong saves, notably denying his Crystal Palace teammate Sarr and Senegal’s Idrissa Gueye. But he was left exposed repeatedly by a shaky England defence.
Senegal, who had lost just once in open play since their 2022 World Cup exit at the hands of England, looked sharp, confident, and tactically composed, exposing Englan
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