England’s captain, Harry Kane, has announced that the national team is developing an NFL-style “playbook” for set piece routines in preparation for the 2026 World Cup. This strategic approach aims to enhance their performance during the tournament, which will take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico next summer.
Kane highlighted the significance of set pieces in international tournaments, emphasizing that the most successful teams often excel in this area. His comments follow insights from manager Thomas Tuchel and assistant coach Anthony Barry, who have also stressed the importance of set plays as a critical component of their strategy. Kane remarked, “Ultimately, the best team at set plays normally goes on to be the best team in the tournament.”
Focus on Set Pieces
During a recent match against Serbia, Kane missed a prime opportunity from a corner, where he made a run to the far post only to head the ball wide. Despite this, he acknowledged that such movements are indicative of the tactical development England is pursuing. With set pieces gaining increasing importance in club football, Kane recognizes their potential impact in the World Cup.
“It is massive to be honest,” Kane stated. “I know it is not the prettiest part of the game, but we have always been big on set plays, both defending and attacking.” He praised teammates like Declan Rice, who consistently deliver quality crosses in club competitions, enhancing their attacking routines.
England’s preparation includes detailed work with Paul Quilter, a set-play analyst who joined the coaching staff after his tenure at Chelsea. Kane explained, “We want to build a book of set plays… where you look at the opposition and see if they are zonal or man-marking and we can pick what we want to do.” He emphasized the importance of mental preparation, noting that while practice time on the field may be limited, understanding strategies in meetings is equally crucial.
Learning from the Past
Kane’s experience in previous tournaments, including the 2018 World Cup where England reached the semi-finals, underscores the value of effective set pieces. He noted, “We did that in 2018, we did that in Euro 2020. Our defensive record is really good as well. So, that is a big part.” His insights reflect a keen awareness of how tactical proficiency can lead to success on the global stage.
As England continues to refine its strategies ahead of the World Cup, the emphasis on set pieces could play a pivotal role in their quest for success. With the tournament fast approaching, Kane and his teammates are committed to ensuring that their preparations yield positive results on the pitch.
