Thomas Tuchel stays assured that England can compete with the easiest in worldwide soccer after watching the Nations League closing on Sunday.

Portugal lifted their second title with a penalty shootout victory over defending champions Spain, with Diogo Costa proving to be the hero for Roberto Martinez’s facet.

Martin Zubimendi had his opening purpose cancelled out by Nuno Mendes earlier than Mikel Oyarzabal restored Spain’s benefit on the stroke of half-time with a effective end.

Portugal hauled themselves stage as soon as once more by means of Cristiano Ronaldo’s 138th purpose for his nation, with spot-kicks deciding who can be topped champions.

After three good penalties from every crew, Mendes picked out the highest nook earlier than Alvaro Morata had his penalty saved by Costa, permitting Ruben Neves to seal the win.

Forward of dealing with Senegal in a pleasant on Tuesday, Tuchel and his gamers sat down to observe that sport and admitted these sides have set the benchmark for his squad forward of subsequent summer time’s World Cup.

“It was a excessive stage within the closing,” stated Tuchel. “Excessive-quality soccer. The primary 45 minutes had been wonderful. Then I might see the gamers get drained and the extent drop slightly bit.

“Portugal gained. Congratulations to Roberto [Martinez] and his crew. They’ve one other title. We hope to compete within the closing 4 subsequent time.

“That’s the usual, that’s the benchmark. We’ll attempt to hunt that, to achieve that, and I’m satisfied we’ve all the pieces it takes to match that after we play these groups. Even when it didn’t appear to be that on Saturday between 6pm and 8pm!

“Usually, I’m satisfied we’ve what it takes to compete on that stage.”