USA/England final in 2026.
So, as we reflect upon our team's WC, what can we conclude?
I'll begin by 'blowing-our-own-trumpet' - our joint prediction that this was a tournament too early, for both teams, proved to be correct. However, the future looks positive.
For the GP it's 'more of the same' - as the players mature as individuals, and the team as a collective (this squad will form the nucleus of the team for many years to come) then those missing quality elements should improve. If Southgate continues, then he now has ample evidence that this is the style the GP should play, rather than lapsing into his inate conservatism over formation and tactics. And yet more penalty practise...
For the S&S, Berhalter has a tight squad - what is glaringly obvious is the need for greater composure, and quality, in the final third; there were games where Team USA could have had it put away with better scoring attempts. They (probably) need just one or two more players who play in higher quality leagues, than MLS, to go over that tipping point to become consistent challengers.
I have now (probably) just guaranteed that the GP won't qualify for USA'26...
