Football NewsThe GuardianUnverified source· 28 Sept 2026
England's box threat vs Spain undone by wasteful finishing
England carved out 36 touches in Spain's box at Wembley — but still learned a harsh lesson in taking chances.
England
team
Box touches
36
Venue
Wembley
Opponent
Spain
Coach
Thomas Tuchel
What happened. England, under Thomas Tuchel, registered 36 touches in Spain's penalty area at Wembley, a total very few sides have managed against Spain in recent years. Despite that territorial dominance, they were given a lesson in clinical finishing.
- Only Germany (45, Euro 2024) and France (42) have had more box touches against Spain since 2016.
- Spain allowed just 9.5 touches per 90 in their box at the 2026 World Cup.
- Belgium, France and Argentina combined for 38 box touches across the final three rounds of that tournament.
The data suggests England's approach created chances, but converting them is the clear next step.
Read the full story at The Guardian →
Spain
T. Tuchel
