England manager Thomas Tuchel has successfully advocated for a change in FIFA's pre-match protocols following a frustrating experience during the national anthem before England's 4-2 victory over Croatia. Tuchel had anticipated a significant moment as he watched his players sing 'God Save the King' in Arlington, but was instead faced with a wall of photographers obstructing his view.

Tuchel's Plea to FIFA

After the match, Tuchel expressed his disappointment, stating, “I have to tell you something, I am begging FIFA to change the position of the photographers in the national anthem because I could not see my team in the national anthem.” He described the moment as “very, very special” and lamented standing just half a meter away from a group of 50 photographers, which diminished his experience. Tuchel reflected on the emotional significance of the occasion, saying, “When I was young and when I started coaching, this was too big to dream of this kind of occasion.”

FIFA Responds to Concerns

In response to Tuchel's concerns, FIFA has agreed to modify their anthem protocols, allowing coaches to have a clearer view of their players during this important pre-match moment. Coaches will now be positioned further down the touchline, ensuring they can witness their teams singing the anthem without obstruction.

Despite the changes, Tuchel has indicated that he will not be joining his players in singing the anthem, although he may reconsider if England progresses to the final. He mentioned, “I think we are not there yet. At the very end [of the tournament], maybe. I am still a bit shy. I don't want to offend people and don't want to have the focus on that now.”

Fortunately for Tuchel, the photographer situation did not overshadow England's impressive start to their World Cup campaign, highlighted by Harry Kane's opening goal from the penalty spot in the 12th minute after a foul on Noni Madueke.