English media on the national team regulations also point to Ivan Perišić

On Wednesday evening, England won 4-2 against Croatia in an entertaining duel with former PSV player Noni Madueke, with current PSV player Ivan Perisic completely deciding the match. Perisic was just before halftime responsible for the assist from which Petar Musa managed to convert the 2-2.

In England, the media are generally impressed by the performance of the team led by national coach Thomas Tuchel. ''This was not the perfect start, but it felt like an important victory, with a performance in an exhilarating second half that will strengthen the confidence that England, with a different approach in this new era, can match or even surpass Southgate's performances'', Sky Sports judges.

There is also criticism, in particular of the English back line. ''Contrary to the story of Gareth Southgate at Euro 2024, where the English defense was solid and the attack depended on individual flashes of inspiration, they were in Texas nervous and restless at the back, but ruthless in attack. Some fragments of their defense will, however, worry Tuchel'', continues the English sports broadcaster.

In doing so, Sky Sports also points to the assist provided by PSV player Perisic. ''The central defense with John Stones and Ezri Konsa was in the spotlight. Martin Baturina's strike came like a bolt from the blue after a mistake by Stones, and England dropped back too far for Musa's second goal. Konsa was unable to prevent Ivan Perisic from heading in a lob pass to the goalscorer,'' said the sports broadcaster.

The BBC also praises the performance of The Three Lions, with Noni Madueke appearing from the kickoff. ''This was an England like we haven’t seen for years, and it was great. It was football at its most intense. England’s opening victory was a mix of exciting attacking football and worrying defensive weakness, but the smiles on the fans’ faces told a different story'', the television broadcaster concludes.

The Guardian speaks of a thrilling duel. ''It started chaotically, quickly and messily, with England being at fault for careless build-up and giving Croatia encouragement. There was quite a bit of pressure against Croatia, which was due to a defense that was simply too open and too easy. A turbulent first half ended 2-2. The general feeling in the open game was one of confusion'', said the newspaper.