Alessia Russo believes England have what it takes to win the World Cup, describing Thomas Tuchel’s squad as strong enough to go all the way in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
England have already secured their place in the knockout stages after beating Croatia 4-2 and drawing with Ghana, and they will look to finish top of Group L when they face Panama tonight.
The Arsenal forward said she would love to see the men’s team end England’s long wait for major international success.
Russo backs England to challenge for title
Speaking ahead of the final group match, Russo praised the quality throughout Tuchel’s squad and said she believes the players have earned the right to be considered genuine contenders.
“I hope so,” Russo said when asked whether England could bring the trophy home.
“England have such a stacked team. They’re amazing. I think they deserve a trophy. They’ve been close for a few years now and I’d love them to do it.”
England reached the final of Euro 2024 before losing to Spain and arrived at this tournament among the favourites to challenge for the title.
‘Enjoy the tournament’ message
Russo knows the pressure that comes with representing England on the biggest stage, having helped the Lionesses reach the 2023 Women’s World Cup final.
The 26-year-old hopes the current men’s squad can embrace the occasion and avoid becoming weighed down by expectations.
“Hopefully they just enjoy the tournament pressure-free,” she said.
“I think English people love to put pressure on England teams, but I just hope they enjoy it.”
Lionesses focused on qualification task
While Russo has been keeping an eye on England’s progress in North America, her attention will soon return to the Lionesses’ own World Cup ambitions.
England’s hopes of automatic qualification for the 2027 Women’s World Cup suffered a setback after a heavy defeat by Spain, leaving them with work to do in the qualifying campaign.
The Lionesses will begin the next phase of qualification against Greece later this year, with Russo confident the squad can respond.
“I know that all of our girls are desperate to play in another World Cup in Brazil, a massive football nation as well,” she said.
“So we need to win those two games and then we can really look forward to it.”
