The Daily Star Ireland
England’s push toward the 2026 World Championship resumes with a qualifier against Andorra—a fixture that, on paper, looks heavily one-sided. Yet as every fan knows, international football has a way of springing surprises.
Tuchel’s Tactical Touch
Since taking charge, Thomas Tuchel has reshaped England’s style with a focus on fluid midfield rotations and relentless pressing. His approach has already paid dividends, with comfortable victories over Albania and Latvia setting the tone for the campaign.
The squad combines the experience of long-serving stars with the energy of rising talent. Harry Kane remains the focal point in attack, supported by the ever-reliable Jordan Pickford in goal. Youngsters Jude Bellingham and Cole Palmer bring creativity and drive, while Bukayo Saka adds pace and sharp finishing on the flanks. Trent Alexander-Arnold’s return from injury provides further versatility on the right, ensuring England has plenty of attacking options.
Tuchel has also made bold selection choices, leaving out Marcus Rashford and Phil Foden for this window. The decision hints at tactical experimentation and a desire to test squad depth.
Andorra’s Uphill Battle
For Andorra, the assignment could hardly be tougher. Managed by long-serving coach Koldo Álvarez, the team enters as clear underdogs, having suffered early qualifying defeats to Albania and Latvia. Limited squad depth and a lack of consistent scorers remain their biggest obstacles.
Forward Albert Rosas is expected to lead the attack, but his opportunities will likely be scarce against England’s well-drilled defense. To make matters more challenging, Andorra has had to relocate its “home” match to Barcelona’s RCDE Stadium, removing any potential home-field advantage.
History on England’s Side
England’s dominance in this matchup is undeniable—they have won all six previous meetings without conceding a goal. Still, Tuchel’s squad adjustments could leave occasional openings for Andorra to exploit.
The midfield battle looks decisive. Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham are tasked with controlling possession and dictating tempo, while Andorra will likely sit deep, stay compact, and rely on rare counterattacks or set pieces to create chances.
Prediction: England to Stay Perfect
While Andorra will defend with determination, England’s quality in every area of the pitch should prove decisive. Kane, Saka, and Palmer are expected to find openings, and even if Andorra manages a late consolation strike, the hosts’ firepower should secure the points comfortably.
England’s form at home—seven wins from their last ten matches—contrasts sharply with Andorra’s poor away record, which includes just one point from a possible 18 in recent qualifiers. The gulf in quality points toward another routine win for the Three Lions as they continue their march toward North America 2026.
Prediction: England 3 – 0 Andorra
