Particle.news
Download on the App Store

England Finish Perfect Qualifying as Tuchel Tells Bellingham to Accept Substitution

Tuchel says the late change protected against a suspension after Bellingham’s booking.

Soccer Football - World Cup - UEFA Qualifiers - Group K - Albania v England - Air Albania Stadium, Tirana, Albania - November 16, 2025 England's Jude Bellingham shakes hands with manager Thomas Tuchel after being substituted Action Images via Reuters/Peter Cziborra
Soccer Football - World Cup - UEFA Qualifiers - Group K - Albania v England - Air Albania Stadium, Tirana, Albania - November 16, 2025 England manager Thomas Tuchel embraces Jarell Quansah after the match Action Images via Reuters/Peter Cziborra
Soccer Football - World Cup - UEFA Qualifiers - Group K - Albania v England - Air Albania Stadium, Tirana, Albania - November 16, 2025 England manager Thomas Tuchel talks to Jude Bellingham REUTERS/Florion Goga
Soccer Football - World Cup - UEFA Qualifiers - Group K - Albania v England - Air Albania Stadium, Tirana, Albania - November 16, 2025 England manager Thomas Tuchel talks to Jude Bellingham REUTERS/Florion Goga

Overview

  • Harry Kane scored twice in Tirana as England beat Albania 2-0 to complete eight wins from eight with no goals conceded.
  • Jude Bellingham, starting for the first time since June, was booked late and replaced by Morgan Rogers in the 84th minute, showing clear frustration.
  • Tuchel said the substitution was a risk-management call, added he would review the reaction, and emphasized standards and respect toward teammates who come on.
  • The incident renews a running subplot after Tuchel previously apologized for remarks about Bellingham’s on-field behavior, with Rogers viewed as a strong rival for the No. 10 role.
  • England will learn their World Cup group on December 5 before reconvening for March friendlies, keeping selection debates active after Tuchel’s rotations and experiments.