Five Reasons Why England’s Euro 2024 Performance Wasn’t a Failure (And What It Means For World Cup 2026)

Euro 2024 is now firmly in the rearview mirror, and for England fans, the dust has settled on another major tournament campaign. While the initial disappointment might still linger for some, a deeper dive into the Three Lions’ journey reveals more than just a missed opportunity. Was it a failure? Or a crucial stepping stone towards something greater? Let’s break down five key reasons why England’s performance, despite falling short of ultimate glory, provided valuable insights and perhaps even a glimmer of hope for the 2026 World Cup.

1. The Defensive Resilience Finally Showed Up (Mostly)

One of England’s historic Achilles’ heels in major tournaments has been their defensive vulnerability when truly tested. At Euro 2024, we saw significant strides in this area. Under Gareth Southgate, there was a clear emphasis on solidity, particularly in the knockout stages. The likes of John Stones and Marc Guéhi (or Ezri Konsa, depending on who stepped up) formed a more cohesive unit, and the midfield pivot, often involving Declan Rice, provided crucial cover.

They faced formidable attacks and largely held their own, conceding fewer goals from open play compared to previous campaigns. This defensive discipline, though sometimes leading to a perceived lack of attacking flair, is a fundamental building block. If they can maintain this structure while injecting more dynamism going forward, it sets a strong precedent for the challenges of 2026.

2. Attacking Talent Delivered, But Conversion Was Key

There’s no doubting the sheer volume of attacking talent in this England squad. From the explosive pace of Bukayo Saka and Phil Foden to the clinical finishing of Harry Kane and the midfield brilliance of Jude Bellingham, the potential is immense.

At Euro 2024, moments of individual brilliance were abundant, and they often created high-quality chances. However, the recurring theme was conversion. Were they clinical enough in the crucial moments? Did they make the opposition pay when on top? While the goals came, the efficiency in front of goal against top-tier opposition sometimes left something to be desired. The talent is there; refining that killer instinct and composure under pressure will be paramount.

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3. The Mental Fortitude Was Tested (And Improved)

The pressure on the England national team in a major tournament, particularly from the fiercely passionate UK media and fanbase, is arguably unparalleled. Previous generations have buckled under it. At Euro 2024, this squad often demonstrated a newfound mental toughness.

They navigated tight group-stage matches, came back from difficult positions (if applicable), and showed resilience when momentum shifted. While the ultimate prize eluded them, the ability to perform under immense scrutiny, especially from young stars, bodes well. The experience gained from these high-stakes encounters, whether they ended in triumph or heartbreak, is invaluable for the psychological development of the team. This kind of resilience is what separates champions from contenders.

4. Gareth Southgate’s Tactical Evolution (Or Lack Thereof)

The microscope on Gareth Southgate’s tactical decisions was, as ever, intense. Critics often point to his perceived cautious approach in big games, a tendency to prioritize defensive solidity over outright attacking flair. At Euro 2024, we saw instances where his game management and substitutions were pivotal, but also moments where questions were raised about his flexibility and willingness to go for the jugular.

Did he make the right calls in key moments? Did he fully unleash the attacking potential at his disposal? The debate will rage on, but his continued tenure (assuming he remains in charge for 2026) suggests a commitment to his long-term vision. The upcoming World Cup qualifiers will be a critical period for him to demonstrate tactical evolution and adapt to opponents more dynamically.

5. Lessons Learned For the World Cup 2026 Journey

Ultimately, a major tournament like Euro 2024 serves as a vital learning curve. For England, it highlighted areas of significant strength and areas needing refinement. The experience of playing deep into the tournament, the exposure to high-pressure situations, and the collective understanding among players will be invaluable heading into the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Here are some key takeaways for the road ahead:

• Clinical Finishing: The team must work on converting a higher percentage of their chances against top-tier defences.
• Tactical Flexibility: Southgate’s ability to adapt mid-game could be crucial.
• Depth in Key Positions: Ensuring strong backups for all positions will be vital for enduring a long tournament.
• Mental Preparation: Continuing to build resilience for knockout stage pressure

Understanding how national teams evolve tactically over time can be key to predicting tournament outcomes. Platforms like The Coaches’ Voice provide unique insights from top managers on tactical trends and match preparation. The qualifiers will offer opportunities to experiment, bed in new talent, and fine-tune combinations. While the “football’s coming home” anthem remains unsung, the journey for this young, talented squad is far from over. The lessons from Euro 2024 could very well be the blueprint for a more successful outing in North America. Keep an eye on how these lessons translate into their performances in the upcoming international breaks.