Former England goalkeeper David James believes the Three Lions possess a key quality that France and Spain lack: the ability to handle adversity under pressure. Writing exclusively for Metro, James argues that England's path to the World Cup quarter-finals has been far more challenging than that of their rivals, which could prove decisive.
England's Testing Journey
Thomas Tuchel's side topped their group before facing tough knockout matches. They trailed 1-0 to DR Congo in the last 32 before Harry Kane's double secured a 2-1 win. Against Mexico at the Azteca, Jude Bellingham's quick-fire double silenced the home crowd, but England were reduced to 10 men after Jarell Quansah's red card. Despite the setback, they held on for a crucial victory.
James highlighted that England have 'passed every test' put in front of them, responding to situations France and Spain have yet to encounter. Spain have not conceded a goal in six matches, while France's attacking talent, led by Kylian Mbappe, has been formidable. However, James questions how these teams would react to going behind.
The Mental Edge
'Spain looked like a superior team not being challenged against Portugal. They are fresher going into the quarter-finals because they haven't really been tested yet,' James told Metro. 'You can say the same about France. England on the other hand have experienced lots of different things in this competition that France or Spain haven't experienced yet.'
He added: 'It is something I said before the Mexico game – let's see what happens when they concede a goal. We saw what happened when they conceded, 98 seconds later they conceded again. That was the reaction that England created.'
James believes Spain's six-game clean sheet streak could be a vulnerability. 'What happens when you do concede a goal? At the moment, there is a sense of invincibility with them.'
Resolve and Belief
James praised England's resolve, noting that even after conceding, they have not looked desperate. 'With France, they have very quick players and that gives them confidence. But what we saw with England was so much resolve, we had a key goal scorer in Jude Bellingham clearing balls off the line. All these things England have experienced, I would argue France haven't. Spain haven't.'
England's quarter-final opponent is Norway, led by Erling Haaland. James believes the team's belief will be crucial. 'They will be under pressure against Norway but they will look around at each other and believe in each other. It gives me more confidence than ever. Every test has been different and England have responded in the way you would want them to.'
World Cup Context
England's side of the draw could lead to a semi-final against defending champions Argentina, who face Switzerland in their quarter-final. On the other side, France and Spain are favourites to meet in the latter stages. James's comments underscore the psychological advantage England may have built through their gruelling path.
