England in better shape than 2018 World Cup run: Southgate

AL KHOR, Qatar: Gareth Southgate says England will go into the World Cup knockout stage in better shape and with more belief than in their 2018 run to the semi-finals.

Southgate’s side powered into the last 16 as Group B winners after a second-half blitz inspired their 3-0 victory over Wales in Doha on Tuesday.

Marcus Rashford scored twice, either side of Phil Foden’s strike, to book a last-16 clash with Senegal on Sunday.

After reaching the knockout phase as group runners-up to Belgium in the last World Cup in Russia four years ago, Southgate believes England are far more battle-hardened and confident this time around.

“I think there is a different mentality. More belief. Our objectives are different. In Russia, we were just thinking, ‘Can we win a knockout game?’ Now there is more confidence and more experience of knockout matches,” Southgate said.

England ended their long run of failure in major tournament knockout matches when they beat Colombia on penalties in the last 16 in Russia, sparking a run to the last four that culminated in defeat by Croatia.

That was a breakthrough moment for England after years in the doldrums before Southgate took charge in 2016, with the Three Lions going on to finish as European Championship runners-up last year.

Ending their wait for a first major trophy since Bobby Moore lifted the 1966 World Cup remains England’s holy grail and Southgate’s men look capable of fulfilling the country’s ambition.

After a drab goalless draw against the United States, England swept aside Wales with the same ruthless finishing they showed in a 6-2 rout of Iran in their group opener.

With England reestablished as one of the leading contenders to win the World Cup, Southgate said his squad are in a good place.

The positives vibes among Southgate’s players were clear to see as they laughed and joked with their families in the stands at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium after vanquishing Wales. “We are pleased the first objective is achieved. The spirit of the team is good,” Southgate said.