England's 7-0 Rout of Croatia Proves What They're Capable Of—But Also What They're Not

Kane and Saka netted twice each, with Bellingham, Gordon and Rogers completing the rout in a Nations League match that represented Tuchel's finest hour since taking charge. The display was precisely what England's supporters had wanted to see: pace, power, high pressing and ruthless clinical finishing.

According to Sky Sports, Kane revealed after the match that the front four had developed a "unique understanding" built on fluidity and positional switching. It's an approach Tuchel has pursued since arriving, demanding those "connections" between senior players that elevate performance.

Yet here lies the frustration. Seven days before this masterclass, England had faced Spain—the reigning World and European champions—and lost. The contrast between dismantling a Croatian side and failing to beat the world's best when it matters most encapsulates the Three Lions' ongoing problem.

Tuchel himself had arrived at this camp under pressure following criticism of his defensive tactics during the World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina. The Rijeka victory has offered temporary relief and restored belief in his methods. But one performance, however dominant, doesn't erase the pattern of "nearly" moments that has defined recent tournaments.

Croatia, ranked 14th globally, provided validation for Tuchel's system. The question remains whether England can replicate this intensity against elite opposition when the stakes are genuinely highest.