England secured the top spot in World Cup Group L and advanced to the knockout stages following a 2-0 victory over Panama.
The win sets up a last-32 matchup against the Democratic Republic of the Congo in Atlanta on Wednesday.
Second-half goals from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane overcame a difficult start where England initially fell behind Croatia in the live standings.
The victory came despite growing concerns over a depleted defense following an ankle injury to defender Jarell Quansah during the match.
Manager Thomas Tuchel expressed confidence in the team's ability to elevate their performance during the knockout rounds despite recent struggles against Ghana and Panama.
"These players are used to these moments – they play Champions League and Europa League to the end," said Thomas Tuchel, England head coach.
The manager emphasized the necessity of maintaining internal belief and bravery as the tournament progresses into more critical phases.
"They know what it takes. We will step up.
The bigger the games get, the bigger we will get," said Thomas Tuchel.
Tuchel noted that navigating the early difficulties of a major competition is standard for a squad with strong mutual trust.
"There is no problem growing into a tournament like this. We have strong belief and trust in each other.
It is important we keep believing in what we can influence and what we can improve.
The most important thing is not to be afraid and be brave," said Thomas Tuchel.
Addressing the injury to Quansah, who replaced the already sidelined Reece James before twisting his ankle, Tuchel confirmed the medical staff is managing the issue with ice and elevation.
"It was a classic ankle twist and he is in pain," said Thomas Tuchel.
The head coach acknowledged that losing another defensive option creates a challenging scenario ahead of their upcoming knockout fixture.
"He said he’s had it before and it was a matter of days. Now he hopes for the same.
He has his leg up high and in ice," said Thomas Tuchel.
With multiple full-backs currently facing fitness races, the coaching staff remains focused on preparing alternative tactical setups.
"Naturally. Of course we have another injury in the position.
It will be a tight race for Reece James and a tight race for Jarell Quansah but it is our job to find solutions and we will do that," said Thomas Tuchel.
Tuchel also praised the current form of his captain, who surpassed Gary Lineker's record of 10 World Cup goals during the match.
"Harry is in an amazing state of mind and he is hungry to go all the way in this World Cup," said Thomas Tuchel.
The manager concluded his assessment of the striker by highlighting the leadership value he provides to the national team.
"We are lucky to have him as captain," said Thomas Tuchel.
Midfielder Jude Bellingham, who assisted Kane's decisive header, echoed the sentiment that the team successfully completed its initial objective.
"We came here to do it in sections and we got through the pre-games well and we achieved the first job: we got through the group and won it," said Jude Bellingham, England midfielder.
Bellingham stated that the players understand their performance standards and will focus on daily development before the next round.
"We know what level we are at and what we want to achieve and we did in the second half.
Every day we have to try to improve and it’s up to us to do that," said Jude Bellingham.
Striker Harry Kane, who has accumulated 70 goals for club and country this season, expressed pride in breaking the scoring record despite facing a rigid defensive setup.
"It’s another proud one to reach," said Harry Kane, England captain.
The captain noted that while the team wanted a smoother conclusion to the group stage, the result remains positive.
"Let’s hope it’s not the last instalment. It was a solid performance against a tricky side.
We would have liked to see out the game a little bit easier but overall it was a good win," said Harry Kane.
