Gary Neville has lavished praise on England manager Thomas Tuchel following the team's victory over Croatia at the FIFA World Cup 2026, describing the performance as one of the most impressive he has seen — yet insisting France remain his pick to lift the trophy.

Speaking after the match, Neville reserved particular admiration for a dominant spell in the game, calling it the best ten minutes any team has played at the tournament so far. The former Manchester United defender argued that England looked sharp, organised, and full of intent under Tuchel's direction.

Despite the glowing assessment of England's display, Neville stopped short of handing them the crown. France, he maintained, retain the edge and are the side he expects to go all the way in the competition.

The result marks a strong start to the World Cup campaign for England, who face growing expectations after a performance that drew widespread attention. Tuchel, appointed to lead the national side ahead of the tournament, appears to have made an early impression — both on the pitch and in the punditry box.