Thomas Tuchel has revealed a peculiar regret from England's memorable 3-2 World Cup victory over Mexico at the Azteca Stadium — he wishes he had grabbed a handful of grass from the famous turf as a keepsake.

Speaking to Daniel Sturridge for the FA's upcoming feature Reflections: England's World Cup Journey, Tuchel disclosed the text message he sent to a friend straight after the final whistle. "I regret that I didn't eat some grass after the match to keep something from this in my body forever," he wrote. "That was the feeling. That was the moment."

A historic night at the Azteca

England's last-16 triumph in July was only the third time Mexico had suffered a competitive defeat at the ground in 90 matches — a testament to the scale of the achievement. The victory came under considerable duress: Jarell Quansah received a red card during the second half, leaving the Three Lions to hold on with ten men.

The run ultimately ended in the semi-finals, where England fell to Argentina. They recovered to beat France in the third-place Bronze medal match.

Henderson's injury and the squad's unity

Tuchel singled out the Jordan Henderson episode as a defining moment of the tournament. Henderson broke his arm after falling over an advertising hoarding while celebrating the Azteca win, and the squad's immediate response left a deep impression on the manager.

"Within a second, the players were there. Every single player was there stopping the celebrations, building a shield, protecting Jordan, not going anywhere, in full empathy. It was so special."

Tuchel described the campaign as one that forged a powerful connection between himself and his players. "It feels like they are my players now," he said, adding that the World Cup run represented "something to build on."

Eyes on the future

England face World Cup winners Spain on 26 September in their opening 2026-27 Uefa Nations League fixture, with the 2028 European Championships also firmly in Tuchel's sights. The German manager expressed confidence that England are closing in on their first senior men's trophy since 1966.

"I'm very excited. I think we got another step closer and I think we're there," Tuchel said.